Gassaway Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Gun Crime: Thomas Jason Drake, 48, Brings Heat

Gassaway Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Gun Crime

In a shocking turn of events, Thomas Jason Drake, a 48-year-old lawyer from Gassaway, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, Drake admitted to possessing and pawning three firearms: a Taurus Model G3C 9mm handgun, a Winchester Model Grand European XTR .257-caliber rifle, and a Colt Model Single Action .45-caliber revolver.

The guns were pawned at Charleston businesses on December 20, 2021, November 22, 2021, and December 7, 2021, respectively. Federal law prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. Drake was aware of this law due to his prior felony conviction for embezzlement in Kanawha County Circuit Court on September 13, 2012.

Drake’s guilty plea sets the stage for a sentencing hearing on August 8, 2024. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

United States Attorney Will Thompson praised the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department in bringing Drake to justice.

United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing, while Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew J. Tessman, Gabriel Price, and Nowles Heinrich are handling the prosecution of the case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia has made a copy of the press release available on their website. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-64.

As a lawyer, Drake’s actions are a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the law and respecting the rights of others. The guilty plea is a significant blow to his reputation and a warning to others who may be tempted to engage in similar behavior.

The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaking the law and highlights the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activity.

Drake’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 8, 2024. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by the community and will serve as a benchmark for future cases involving gun crimes.