A Jackson County man is facing 15 years in prison after a federal judge determined he was an armed career criminal. Richard Grady Romans, 52, of Flat Rock, Alabama, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Abdul K. Kallon for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm on January 13, 2016, in Jackson County.
Romans pleaded guilty to the charge in May, admitting to possessing a Remington .22-caliber rifle, a Marlin Firearms 30-30 caliber rifle, and a Savage 93R17 rifle. The judge upheld the government’s argument that Romans should be sentenced under the Armed Career Criminal Act because he has three prior federal felony drug convictions.
According to court records, Romans was convicted in federal court in Tennessee in 2005 for conspiracy to distribute cocaine from 1994 through 1999, distributing cocaine on January 15, 1999, and distributing cocaine on February 26, 1999.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Becher Sr. stated, ‘The Armed Career Criminal Act is designed for defendants like Mr. Romans who, after spending significant time behind bars, continue their criminal activity once released back into society.’
U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town added, ‘Now, because of Mr. Romans’ ongoing criminal behavior, he will spend the next 15 years in a federal prison.’
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson noted, ‘ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence focuses on reducing the violent crime and disrupting the shooting cycle that negatively impact our neighborhoods.’
Romans’ case was investigated by the ATF. The conviction and sentencing serve as a reminder of the consequences of violating federal laws and the importance of community safety.
The 15-year sentence handed down to Romans is a result of his ongoing criminal behavior and multiple prior convictions. His case highlights the need for continued efforts to reduce violent crime and keep communities safe.
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Key Facts
- State: Alabama
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons|Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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