Joseph R. Quinones, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Indiana 2023

Fort Wayne, IN – A brazen display of a firearm by a Nevada man at a local fast-food restaurant has earned him a spot in the slammer for 150 months. Joseph R. Quinones, 31, of Reno, Nevada, showed no regard for the law when he threatened employees with a gun on November 14, 2023, at a Fort Wayne fast-food restaurant, according to the United States Attorney’s Office.

Quinones, who has a prior felony conviction, was prohibited from possessing a firearm. The Fort Wayne Police Department responded to the scene and apprehended Quinones near the restaurant, where a loaded firearm was found on his person. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted in the investigation.

Assistant United States Attorney Teresa L. Ashcraft prosecuted the case, which is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. The PSN program aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement and community members to make neighborhoods safer.

Quinones pleaded guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady. He will also serve 2 years of supervised release after completion of his prison term.

The violent crime reduction strategy launched by the federal government in May 2021 has been instrumental in strengthening the PSN program. The strategy focuses on fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring results.

Quinones’ actions were a clear breach of the law, and his sentence sends a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The community can rest assured that those who commit violent crimes will be held accountable.

As the Grimy Times continues to expose the darker side of human nature, it is clear that the PSN program is having a positive impact on reducing violent crime in our communities.

By working together with law enforcement and community leaders, we can create safer neighborhoods for everyone.

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