Dustin Lee Watson, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, West Virginia 2023

ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA — Dustin Lee Watson, a 24-year-old man from Roanoke, West Virginia, has been caught red-handed with a firearm, a serious offense that could land him in prison for up to 10 years.

Watson, having previously been convicted of a felony and domestic violence, admitted to having a .380 caliber pistol in October 2017 in Upshur County. This is a clear case of a convicted felon breaking the law and putting the public at risk.

The guilty plea was made as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, a program aimed at reducing violent crime in communities. PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is leading the prosecution, and the case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the West Virginia State Police; and the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office.

The case highlights the importance of community policing and collaboration in preventing and addressing violent crime. By working together, law enforcement agencies and local communities can identify the most pressing crime problems and develop effective solutions to address them.

Watson faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence will be based on the seriousness of the offenses and Watson's prior criminal history. This is a stark reminder that breaking the law has serious consequences, and those who commit crimes will be held accountable.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Aloi presided over the case, ensuring that justice was served. The community can rest assured that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to keep them safe and bring perpetrators to justice.

As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that Watson's actions were reckless and put the public at risk. The guilty plea is a significant step forward in holding him accountable for his crimes.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in preventing and addressing violent crime. By working together, we can create safer and more resilient communities for all.

The defendant, Dustin Lee Watson, has a prior conviction of a felony and domestic violence, making this offense even more serious. The guilty plea is a clear indication that Watson understands the severity of his actions and the consequences he will face.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/lewis-county-man-admits-firearms-charge-0