Montrel Hammond, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Arkansas 2024

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Montrel Hammond, 31, of North Little Rock, is facing over 17 years behind bars after a federal judge delivered a harsh sentence for illegally possessing a firearm. The conviction marks the second time Hammond has been busted for the same offense, and prosecutors highlighted a history of violence against women and children when arguing for a substantial prison term.

U.S. District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. handed down the sentence today, following Hammond’s guilty plea on October 3, 2023, to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. While a fine wasn’t levied, Hammond will also serve up to five years of supervised release after completing his prison sentence. He was initially indicted on July 5, 2023, facing a possible sentence ranging from 15 years to life, along with a $250,000 fine.

The case stems from an October 27, 2022, traffic stop by Little Rock Police Department officers. They pulled over a black 2008 Santa Fe matching the description of a vehicle linked to a string of vehicle break-ins. Inside, officers found Hammond admitting to burglarizing a 2021 Toyota Rav4 and stealing credit cards. A search of the vehicle revealed the stolen cards and, critically, a 9mm firearm hidden under the driver’s seat.

Federal prosecutors didn’t shy away from detailing Hammond’s extensive criminal record. Beyond the prior conviction for illegal firearm possession, Hammond also has convictions for domestic battery, possession of a controlled substance, and residential burglary. The judge clearly took these past offenses, particularly those involving violence, into consideration when imposing the lengthy sentence. There is no parole in the federal system, meaning Hammond will serve the entirety of his term.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation, with crucial assistance from the Little Rock Police Department. The ATF’s New Orleans Field Division was responsible for the case. The conviction underscores the agency’s focus on removing illegally-possessed firearms from the hands of convicted felons, particularly those with a documented history of violence.

Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentencing, reiterating his office’s commitment to prosecuting individuals who put the public at risk through illegal gun possession. While the sentence won’t undo the harm Hammond has already caused, it sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated in Arkansas.

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