A St. Tammany Parish man has been indicted for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Matthew Laurent, age 21, faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to the indictment, on or about December 16, 2022, Laurent possessed machineguns, that is three (3) Glock auto-sears and two (2) swift links, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2). This charge carries a severe penalty.
Laurent’s indictment is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in the community. The Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy on May 26, 2021, which strengthens PSN based on core principles, including fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, setting focused enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
U.S. Attorney Evans stressed that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Evans also praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Greg M. Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Laurent’s indictment is a significant step in the fight against gun violence in Louisiana. The community can rest assured that the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible for such crimes to justice.
A 21-year-old St. Tammany Parish man has been charged with a serious crime. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of gun safety and the consequences of violating federal laws.
For more information, contact U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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