Katrina Ann Sears, Unlawful Distribution of a Firearm, West Virginia 2024

Gun Crime Rocks Belington Community

Katrina Ann Sears, 42, has admitted to a serious firearms charge in West Virginia, sending shockwaves throughout the quiet town of Belington.

According to court documents, Sears pleaded guilty to one count of ‘Unlawful Distribution of a Firearm’ after selling a semi-automatic rifle to a convicted felon in October 2019 in Barbour County.

The devastating crime has left many residents wondering how such an incident could occur in their tight-knit community.

‘The safety of our citizens is of the utmost importance,’ said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. ‘It’s disheartening to think that someone would put our community at risk like this.’

Katrina Ann Sears faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government, while the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Aloi presided over the case.

The conviction marks a significant blow to Sears, who now faces a lengthy prison sentence and a hefty fine. The community remains on high alert, eager to see justice served in this disturbing case.

**FACTS:** Defendant: Katrina Ann Sears, 42; Crime: Unlawful Distribution of a Firearm; City: Elkins, West Virginia; State: West Virginia; Date: October 2019; Sentence: Up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000.

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