KANSAS CITY, MO – Jerrell D. Coppage, 34, is facing a long stretch behind bars after a federal judge handed down a hefty sentence for being a repeat offender caught with illegal firearms. Coppage was sentenced today to nine years and seven months in federal prison, with no chance of parole, for possessing guns despite a lengthy criminal record.
The case stemmed from an incident on January 3, 2024, where Coppage was found to be in possession of a trio of firearms: a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber pistol; an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, .223 caliber pistol; and a Ruger, Model LCP, .380 caliber pistol. Coppage admitted his guilt on March 6, 2025, pleading guilty to the charge of being a felon in possession of firearms – a clear violation of federal law.
But this wasn’t Coppage’s first rodeo with the law. Far from it. Records show a rap sheet stretching back years, with four prior felony convictions for burglary, three for theft, two for stealing a motor vehicle, and additional felony convictions for selling controlled substances, tampering with evidence, and forgery. Adding insult to injury, Coppage was already on parole in a state case when he committed this latest federal offense.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings successfully prosecuted the case, building a solid argument against Coppage given his extensive history. The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department. These agencies worked together to remove another dangerous individual – and his arsenal – from the streets.
Federal authorities are framing this sentencing as a win for Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement and communities. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN initiative in May 2021, focusing on building trust, supporting community organizations, prioritizing enforcement, and tracking results. This case, officials say, is a direct result of that strategy.
While a lengthy prison sentence won’t undo the damage Coppage has already caused, it sends a clear message: illegally possessing firearms while a convicted felon will not be tolerated in Kansas City – or anywhere else in this country. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on efforts to keep our communities safe from violent criminals.
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Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Violent Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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