WASHINGTON – Anthony Eugene Burns, 31, a repeat offender from Maryland, has been found guilty by a federal jury of illegally possessing a loaded firearm in the nation’s capital. The conviction, announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, adds another chapter to Burns’ escalating criminal history.
The bust unfolded February 25, 2024, in Southeast DC. Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to reports of a disturbance at an apartment building on the 2700 block of Wade Road Southeast. As they approached, officers spotted Burns making a beeline for escape, ditching a dark object – later identified as a black Glock 27 pistol – over a fence and into a vacant lot. The chase continued through alleyways between Eaton Road Southeast and Sumner Road Southeast before Burns was cornered on the 1200 block of Sumner Road Southeast.
Recovered from the lot was the Glock 27, loaded with a staggering 21 rounds in an extended magazine and one round already chambered. The weapon’s discovery sealed Burns’ fate, given his extensive criminal past. This wasn’t a first-time offense; Burns previously pleaded guilty in 2017 to multiple felony charges stemming from a violent armed robbery spree. Those charges included conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery, interference with interstate commerce by robbery, and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence.
For those crimes, Burns received an 84-month prison sentence. Crucially, he was still on probation at the time of this latest offense, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the law and a continued threat to public safety. The jury clearly saw through his actions, delivering a guilty verdict that reflects the severity of his choices. U.S. District Court Judge Jia M. Cobb has scheduled sentencing for November 24, 2025, leaving Burns to face the consequences of his actions.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Washington Field Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emory V. Cole and Special Assistant United States Attorney Emily Reeder-Ricchetti are prosecuting the case, with support from former Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Craft and a dedicated team including Paralegal Specialist Tiffany Robinson, Supervisory Paralegal Specialist Teesha Tobias, Litigation Technology Specialist Charles Bruce and Litigation Technology Supervisor Leif Hickling.
Case number 24cr151 underscores the ongoing battle against illegal firearms in Washington D.C., and the Grimy Times will continue to track this case and others like it, holding those who endanger our communities accountable. Burns’ actions serve as a stark reminder of the revolving door of justice for some, and the urgent need for stricter enforcement and sentencing for repeat offenders.
RELATED: Maryland Felon Burns Caught with Loaded Glock in DC
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Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Violent Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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