Maurice Sewell, Felon in Possession, Indiana 2017

A Fort Wayne man will spend nearly 16 years behind bars for his latest crime spree. Maurice Sewell, 39, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced to 188 months in prison followed by 6 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

The crimes occurred in November 2016, when Sewell possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute it. He also possessed three firearms after having prior felony convictions in the Allen County Superior Court.

Sewell's lengthy criminal history includes a 2001 conviction for dealing cocaine or a narcotic drug, a 2012 conviction for the same offense, and a 2007 conviction for residential entry and strangulation.

'As the Court indicated today, Sewell's long criminal history and recent conduct of illegally possessing firearms and illegal drugs led to the lengthy jail sentence the Court imposed today,' said United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II. 'My Office has always aggressively prosecuted felons who possess firearms and will continue to work with federal, state and local law enforcement partners in these type of cases.'

Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith handled the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo of the Chicago Field Division commended the partnership between the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Fort Wayne Police Department in investigating and prosecuting Sewell.

'Holding those who illegally possess firearms accountable is important to the safety of the whole community,' de Tineo said.

The case highlights the dangers of possessing firearms and controlled substances, particularly for individuals with prior convictions. It also showcases the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating crime and keeping communities safe.

With this sentence, Sewell will serve nearly 16 years in prison and face 6 years of supervised release upon his release. This serves as a warning to others who may be considering similar crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndin/pr/fort-wayne-man-sentenced-188-months-prison-0