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Felony Fugitive Convicted for Punching Cop, Gun Possession
Cleveland Sanders, a 41-year-old convicted felon from Covington, Georgia, has been found guilty of possession of a firearm after assaulting a Clearwater police officer during a traffic stop in 2023.
On January 3, 2023, an officer with the Clearwater Police Department pulled over Sanders for multiple traffic infractions near North Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Grant Street in Clearwater, Florida. The officer noticed a large handgun in the driver’s side doorjamb and ordered Sanders to remain in the vehicle. However, Sanders got out and punched the officer several times in the face, dislodging the officer’s body camera before fleeing the scene.
After a thorough investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clearwater Police Department, the firearm was recovered from the doorjamb of the vehicle. It was determined that Sanders had a prior felony conviction for aggravated battery with great bodily harm, making him prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David W.A. Chee and David Sullivan. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities by fostering trust and legitimacy, supporting community-based organizations, and setting focused enforcement priorities.
Sanders faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 27, 2024. This conviction serves as a reminder of the consequences of committing violent crimes while in possession of firearms as a convicted felon.
As the nation grapples with rising crime rates, the conviction of Cleveland Sanders serves as a beacon of hope for communities seeking justice. The Clearwater Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives worked tirelessly to bring this case to justice, and their efforts will undoubtedly make a difference in the lives of those who live and work in Clearwater.
Project Safe Neighborhoods has been instrumental in reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities across the country. By working together with law enforcement and community organizations, we can create safer neighborhoods for everyone.
The case against Cleveland Sanders is a stark reminder of the dangers of possessing firearms as a convicted felon. It is a testament to the dedication of law enforcement and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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