Leo Tate, Gun Control Act Violation, Louisiana 2024

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – In a shocking turn of events, Leo Tate, a 31-year-old resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty to violating the Federal Gun Control Act. The crime, which occurred in April 2024, has left many in the community stunned.

According to court records, Federal Bureau of Investigation agents stopped a vehicle occupied by Tate and another man, for whom agents had a federal warrant to obtain a DNA swab. When agents stopped the vehicle, Tate and the other man attempted to flee, but were apprehended shortly after exiting the vehicle.

During a search of the vehicle, agents found a Glock pistol with an extended magazine and a round in the chamber that Tate admitted was his. Tate also admitted knowing he was prohibited from possessing a firearm, due to his numerous prior felony convictions.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and PSN Coordinator.

Judge Jane Triche Milazzo set sentencing for January 30, 2025. Tate faces a maximum term of fifteen years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

The guilty plea is a significant blow to Tate and his supporters, who had hoped for a different outcome. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to gun control laws and the consequences of violating them.

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