Fort Wayne Felon McBride Gets 12.5 Years for Gun Rampage

FORT WAYNE, IN – Brandon K. McBride, 38, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is headed to federal prison for 150 months – 12 and a half years – after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. The sentence, handed down by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, reflects a pattern of brazen disregard for the law and a clear danger to the public, according to United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

The case against McBride began to solidify just thirteen days after his release from parole for a previous felony handgun conviction. On August 1, 2023, officers discovered McBride in possession of a stolen handgun equipped with a high-capacity, 50-round drum magazine. But that wasn’t the end of it. McBride escalated his criminal activity less than two months later.

On September 22, 2023, McBride led authorities on a relentless, hour-long pursuit through the streets of Fort Wayne and New Haven. The chase wasn’t just a flight from justice; it was a reckless endangerment of life. McBride slammed into two police vehicles before officers finally brought him into custody. A search of his vehicle revealed a disturbing arsenal: three firearms, including a fully automatic machine gun.

This wasn’t a first-time offender’s mistake. McBride’s record is littered with prior convictions – eight felony convictions and a staggering twenty-one misdemeanor convictions. The court clearly recognized the escalating danger posed by this repeat offender, delivering a substantial sentence intended to protect the community.

The investigation was a collaborative effort, led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with crucial support from the Fort Wayne Police Department and the New Haven Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith skillfully prosecuted the case, securing the significant sentence against McBride.

This prosecution is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and communities. Launched in May 2021, the renewed PSN strategy focuses on building trust, supporting community organizations, prioritizing strategic enforcement, and rigorously measuring results. The goal? Safer neighborhoods for everyone – and keeping dangerous individuals like Brandon K. McBride off the streets.