Burlington, VT – In a gritty turn of events, Michael Wilson, 24, of Kingston, Jamaica, stands charged in federal court with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States. The charges stem from an incident on June 28, 2025, when Wilson discharged a firearm during a dispute at a bar in South Burlington, shooting his victim in the shoulder.
Wilson, who had overstayed his visa and lacked legal status, fled to Connecticut after the shooting but was eventually apprehended. He appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on August 26, 2025, where he was ordered detained pending trial.
The State of Vermont initially charged Wilson with attempted second-degree murder and reckless endangerment. However, on August 25, 2025, the state withdrew its request for no bail, leading to his release from state custody until federal charges were filed.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher highlighted the collaborative efforts of federal agencies in this case, noting that Wilson’s prosecution exemplifies the vigilant enforcement of federal firearms laws against illegal aliens. If convicted, Wilson faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.
In addition to ATF and Border Patrol, the South Burlington Police Department, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, Winooski Police Department, and Windsor Connecticut Police Department were commended for their investigative work. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman is prosecuting the case, while Michael Wilson is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Charles N. Curlett, Jr.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide DOJ initiative targeting illegal immigration, cartels, and transnational criminal organizations.
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Key Facts
- State: Vermont
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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