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Columbia, SC Felon Slapped with 35 Months for Gun Crimes
Raheem Fitzgerald Bethel, age 27, of Columbia, South Carolina, has been handed a 35-month prison sentence for his role in carrying multiple pistols while out on bond.
According to sources, Bethel, a previously convicted felon, was arrested by the Columbia Police in January 2013 for being in possession of two firearms, one of which was stolen. After being released on bond, he was caught again in September 2013 with another stolen pistol.
U.S. Attorney Bill Nettles stated that Bethel was sentenced to 35 months in federal prison by Senior U.S. District Judge Margaret B. Seymour. This conviction is part of the ongoing efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s office, in conjunction with the Columbia Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, to identify and prosecute violent felons with firearms.
Bethel was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2014, following his second arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay N. Richardson led the prosecution in this case.
The case highlights the U.S. Attorney’s office’s commitment to keeping the community safe by addressing gun crimes committed by violent felons. Bethel’s sentence serves as a reminder that carrying firearms while on bond will not be tolerated.
Contact Person: Jim May (803) 929-3000 for more information on this case.
A federal grand jury indicted Bethel on February 5, 2014, following his repeated offenses. His 35-month sentence is a testament to the determination of law enforcement to keep guns out of the wrong hands.
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Key Facts
- State: South Carolina
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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