A 33-year-old Madison man has been sentenced to 54 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. David A. Kelly pleaded guilty to the charge on March 14, 2019, and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge William Conley.
According to the United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, Scott C. Blader, Kelly retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and brandished it at a group of people on the west side of Madison on July 16, 2018. Kelly threatened to kill the group before leaving the scene. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and a search of his home revealed a loaded .40 caliber pistol with Kelly’s fingerprints on it.
Kelly had been convicted in Dane County Circuit Court just four days prior to the July 16 incident for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also has three prior felony drug convictions, which were taken into account during his sentencing. Judge Conley rejected Kelly’s request for a 30-month sentence, citing the defendant’s history of violence and lack of remorse.
The case against Kelly was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
The charge against Kelly was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Corrections, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow. The sentence reflects the seriousness of Kelly’s crime and the need to protect the community from individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
The sentencing of David Kelly serves as a reminder of the importance of enforcing laws related to firearm possession, particularly for individuals with a history of violent crime. The collaboration between state and federal law enforcement agencies in this case demonstrates the commitment to reducing violent crime and promoting public safety. As the U.S. Justice Department continues to implement programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods, the community can expect to see a decrease in gun-related crimes and a safer environment for all.
In addition to the 54-month prison sentence, Kelly’s case highlights the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of violent crime, including substance abuse and lack of opportunities for rehabilitation. By providing support for individuals with felony convictions and helping them to reintegrate into society, the community can reduce the likelihood of recidivism and promote a safer, more just environment for all.
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Key Facts
- State: Wisconsin
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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