Markus Odon McCormick, Federal Firearm Charge, North Carolina 2024

A Cumberland County man has been sentenced to 10 years for illegally possessing a firearm. Markus Odon McCormick, 39, was convicted of possession of a firearm by a felon, a federal charge that carries significant penalties.

The conviction stems from an incident on December 10, 2020, when the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call regarding gunfire and an assault. Deputies found McCormick standing by his vehicle, and the victim was bleeding from head injuries. A responding officer noticed a firearm in a crawlspace opening of a nearby mobile home, which belonged to the victim. Further investigation revealed narcotics and a 9mm caliber pistol under the home.

Subsequent laboratory testing revealed the presence of McCormick’s DNA on the pistol. McCormick has prior felony convictions, including federal conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of cocaine base (crack), which prohibited him from possessing a firearm.

McCormick was previously convicted of human trafficking charges in a state court, investigated by the Fayetteville Police Department. The federal conviction and sentence are a significant blow to McCormick, who will now serve 120 months in prison.

The case was investigated by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Gainer prosecuted the case.

In a statement, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley announced the sentencing after Judge Louise W. Flanagan handed down the 120-month sentence. The announcement was made on May 23, 2024. The case number is 5:23-CR-276-FL-BM.

The charges against McCormick include possession of a firearm by a felon, a federal charge that prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from possessing firearms. McCormick’s prior convictions include federal conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of cocaine base (crack).

The sentence of 120 months in prison is a significant outcome for McCormick, who will now face the consequences of his actions. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of enforcing federal laws and holding individuals accountable for their crimes.

Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-276-FL-BM.

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