Billings, Montana – In a disturbing case of a convicted felon possessing a firearm, Frank Banks, a former resident of Glendive, Montana, was sentenced to 30 months in prison, two years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment on April 10, 2023.
The charges against Banks stemmed from an incident on November 23, 2015, when law enforcement received a report that Banks was standing outside the Manor Apartments in Glendive, holding a gun. During a search of his apartment in December 2015, officers found a Hi-Point, model C9, 9mm Luger semi-automatic pistol in his bedroom, a box of 9mm ammunition inside the apartment, and six rounds of ammunition in his pocket.
Banks, 59, has a lengthy criminal history, including violent offenses, dating back to the age of 18. His previous felony conviction from the state of Washington prohibits him from possessing a firearm.
In a letter filed with the district court, Banks acknowledged his guilt, stating that he became guilty of the charges weeks before the incident and that he was guilty as soon as the gun was brought into his home.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in conjunction with the Glendive Police Department and other federal, state, and local agencies. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to identify those responsible for significant violent crime in Montana through the Project Safe Neighborhoods program.
The program, which has proven successful in reducing violent crime, is a centerpiece of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s efforts to combat violent crime in Montana. Today’s sentencing is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, underscoring the office’s commitment to keeping Montana communities safe.
Banks’ sentence serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of violating federal firearms laws. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute those who engage in such behavior and to ensure that Montana’s communities remain safe.
Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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