James Arthur Tatum, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Missouri 2024

Kansas City Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Possession of Firearm After Prior Felony Conviction

A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. James Arthur Tatum, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark for the crime, which he committed on June 8, 2024.

According to the plea agreement filed in the case, Tatum was encountered by a Columbia Police officer while alone in a vehicle. The officer noticed Tatum making furtive movements in the front passenger area and subsequently searched the car, locating a Glock 43X firearm under the driver’s seat.

Tatum has prior felony convictions, including a prior federal conviction, and is not permitted to possess a firearm. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by the Columbia, Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Tatum’s sentence includes 46 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. The sentence reflects the severity of the crime, which put the community at risk.

The crime highlights the importance of enforcing laws related to firearms and ensuring that those with prior felony convictions do not possess them. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives played a key role in the investigation and prosecution of the case.

Tatum’s sentence serves as a reminder that the consequences of committing a crime can be severe. The community is safer with him behind bars, and we hope that this sentence will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider committing similar crimes.

Mandatory Facts: Defendant: James Arthur Tatum. Crime: Felon in Possession of a Firearm. City and State: Kansas City, Missouri. Date: June 8, 2024. Sentence: 46 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release.

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