Walter Bryant Williams, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, MS 2024

WALTER BRYANT WILLIAMS, the 29-year-old Gulfport resident, was handed a 41-month federal prison sentence yesterday by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., for being a felon in possession of a firearm, it was announced by U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols of the ATF.

Williams was also sentenced to three years of supervised release following his prison term and ordered to pay a fine of $1500. The sentence came after Williams’ arrest on April 18, 2018, when Gulfport Police officers discovered him with a firearm and narcotics during a routine traffic stop.

The Gulfport Police Department and the ATF jointly investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams. Williams has prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance in Harrison County and felony attempted burglary in Jackson County, adding to his criminal record.

According to authorities, the evidence against Williams was overwhelming, leading to the severe punishment handed down by the court. The ATF emphasized that such sentences are part of its ongoing efforts to keep firearms out of the hands of felons.

Walter Bryant Williams will now serve his time in a federal correctional facility, with hopes that his conviction and sentence serve as a stern warning to others about the consequences of illegal firearm possession and drug trafficking.

The Gulfport community expressed relief at the outcome, viewing it as a significant victory against gun violence and criminal activity. The case serves as a stark reminder of the serious penalties faced by those who choose to break the law in Mississippi.