Rakim Royster, Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, North Carolina 2020

Raleigh man Rakim Royster faces serious consequences for his actions after pulling a gun on officers during a drug investigation.

A 57-month prison sentence was handed down to Royster for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. The crime occurred on February 29, 2020, when officers approached Royster’s vehicle after conducting a traffic stop. Royster, who was wanted in connection to drug activity at his Raleigh home, lifted his right hand from between the seats and pointed a handgun towards the approaching officers.

However, Royster quickly dropped the gun and raised his hands to surrender. A search of his vehicle revealed a Polymer80 9mm handgun with an extended magazine. A search of his home uncovered digital scales, baggies, and small amounts of cocaine and marijuana, as well as multiple 9mm magazines and bags of both 9mm and 40 caliber ammunition.

Royster admitted to selling cocaine and heroin and stated that he carried the firearm for protection. The investigation was conducted by the Raleigh Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Smith, Jake D. Pugh, and Laura Howard prosecuted the case.

G. Norman Acker, III, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The case highlights the importance of gun safety and the consequences of carrying a firearm as a convicted felon.

Royster’s case is a reminder that the law will not tolerate the possession of firearms by those who have been convicted of a felony. The sentence handed down to Royster serves as a warning to others who may be considering similar actions.

Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-0320-FL.

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