Ember Shawndale White, Illegal Firearm Possession, Minnesota 2021

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Ember Shawndale White, 23, of St. Paul is looking at federal prison time after admitting to possessing a firearm despite a criminal history that already barred him from owning one. The plea comes after a bust in July 2021 where White was found packing a Beretta APX 9x19mm pistol.

Federal prosecutors revealed White isn’t a first-timer when it comes to the law. Court documents show he’s racked up multiple felony convictions across Ramsey, Hennepin, and Dakota Counties. Federal law is clear: a convicted felon isn’t allowed to possess firearms or ammunition, period. White apparently didn’t get the memo.

Yesterday, White formally pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm as a felon before U.S. District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen. While a sentencing date hasn’t been set, the charge carries a potential maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison. Given White’s history, a significant stretch behind bars is likely.

The bust was the result of a joint operation between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the St. Paul Police Department. The ATF has been increasingly focused on tracing illegal firearms and holding accountable those who obtain them unlawfully, especially repeat offenders like White.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew S. Ebert is leading the prosecution, tasked with securing a conviction and a sentence that reflects the seriousness of White’s crime. Sources inside the U.S. Attorney’s office indicate they will be highlighting White’s prior convictions during sentencing to argue for a harsher penalty.

This case underscores the ongoing struggle to keep guns out of the hands of individuals with violent histories. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing, as well as any further developments in the fight against illegal firearms in the Twin Cities and beyond.

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