Montell De’Angelo Cousar, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, South Carolina 2023

Chester Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm

COLUMBIA, S.C.

In a shocking turn of events, 33-year-old Montell De’Angelo Cousar, a resident of Chester, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

The charges against Cousar stem from an incident that took place on May 5, 2023, when the Rock Hill Police Department received reports of a fight at a local restaurant. As officers were clearing the parking lot, Cousar dropped a loaded 9mm pistol from his clothing as he walked past an RHPD officer. The pistol was reported stolen.

Further investigation revealed that Cousar was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition based on his prior convictions. In 2017, Cousar was convicted of assault and battery, first degree, after shooting the victim twice. In 2016, he was convicted for multiple counts of distributing crack cocaine.

United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Cousar to 33 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Rock Hill Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action in addressing gun violence. As the case continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Cousar will be paying the price for his actions.

With this sentencing, the community can feel a sense of justice being served. However, the question remains: what can be done to prevent similar incidents in the future?

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