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New Orleans Felon Gets 51 Months for Gun Possession
Darnell Melton, a 27-year-old New Orleans resident, was sentenced on April 23, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 51 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Melton pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
Melton has prior felony convictions for simple robbery, simple burglary, and attempted possession of a firearm by a felon. On March 28, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at Melton’s shared residence. Melton and three others were in the house but did not surrender for over an hour. When the house was searched, FBI agents found two AR-15 pistols and three handguns in the attic. Melton possessed one of the handguns, a Glock Model 27 Gen4, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol.
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. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, setting focused enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is prosecuting the case.
Melton’s sentence serves as a warning to those who continue to disregard federal and state laws. As the city of New Orleans struggles with gun violence, it is crucial that those who possess firearms illegally are held accountable. Melton’s actions put the community at risk, and his punishment reflects the severity of the offense.
The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to reducing violent crime in New Orleans. By working together, we can make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
The $100 mandatory special assessment fee will be used to fund programs that support victims of crime and to improve the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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