Gene A. James, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, West Virginia 2016

Felon in Possession of a Firearm Costs Raleigh County Man 10 Years in Prison

BECKLEY, W.Va. – A convicted felon from Sophia pleaded guilty to a federal gun charge, announced Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. Gene A. James, 46, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The investigation revealed that on February 23, 2016, while in Sophia, James possessed a Leinad model DD derringer pistol. James was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2014 conviction in United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia for distribution of oxycodone.

James faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on November 2, 2016. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.

The United States Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

Gene A. James, the convicted felon from Sophia, will face the consequences of his actions in a federal prison cell for up to 10 years. The investigation into his possession of a firearm and prior conviction for distribution of oxycodone has led to a serious sentence.

James’ guilty plea is a significant step in bringing gun crime to an end in Raleigh County. The efforts of law enforcement agencies to target and prosecute individuals who possess firearms illegally are crucial in making communities safer.

The Project Safe Neighborhoods program aims to reduce gun crime across the United States by collaborating with local programs. This case is a testament to the effectiveness of such initiatives in making a positive impact on communities.

Defendant: Gene A. James

Criminal Charges: Felon in possession of a firearm

City and State: Sophia, West Virginia

Date: November 2, 2016 (sentencing)

Sentence: Up to 10 years in federal prison

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