Columbus Man Pleads Guilty to Break-In and Theft of Firearms from Columbus Gun Dealer
COLUMBUS, Georgia – In a shocking case of brazen theft, Devante Patterson, a 24-year-old Columbus resident, has pleaded guilty to breaking into a local gun dealer and making off with six pistols and three rifles, including two assault weapons.
Patterson’s guilty plea came before Chief United States District Judge Clay Land on August 21, 2018, as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and making neighborhoods safer for everyone.
According to court documents, Patterson entered the premises of Shooters of Columbus, a Federal Firearms Licensee, on the early morning hours of November 24, 2017. Despite several attempts, Patterson managed to cut through a locked roll-up door and smash a glass door to gain entry into the store.
Once inside, Patterson stole six pistols and three rifles, including two assault weapons, before making his escape. But his luck ran out when officers encountered him at another firearms business, where they discovered evidence linking him to the first break-in and theft. Ultimately, officers were able to recover eight of the nine stolen firearms.
The Columbus Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Michael T. Solis is prosecuting the case for the United States.
Patterson’s guilty plea is a significant blow to the community, which has been plagued by a rise in violent crime. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority, and programs like PSN are helping to make a difference.
Patterson’s sentence has yet to be determined, but he faces up to 10 years in prison for the offense of Theft of Firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee. The case is a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the need for law enforcement to work together to keep neighborhoods safe.
Patients who wish to learn more about the case or have questions should contact Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, at (478) 621-2603.
Key Facts
- State: Georgia
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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