Richard America, Gun Possession, West Virginia 2023

CLARKSBURG, WV – Richard Edward America, III, 46, of Salem, West Virginia, is headed to federal prison for ten years after a brazen shootout with police and the discovery of a cache of illegal weapons. America was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh, bringing an end to a case that exposed a dangerous individual and a stockpile of firearms.

The incident unfolded in May of 2022 when law enforcement attempted to serve a search warrant at America’s residence. Instead of complying, America opened fire on the officers, sparking a tense standoff. He fled the scene, initiating a manhunt that ultimately led to his apprehension. The scene near where America fired upon officers revealed eleven firearms, including a disturbing assault-style rifle. Authorities also recovered two silencers and a substantial amount of ammunition.

Federal prosecutors revealed that America’s possession of these firearms was illegal from the start. He was already prohibited from owning guns due to a prior conviction in Doddridge County state court. This prior conviction didn’t deter America, who allegedly amassed an arsenal despite the legal restrictions. The specifics of the prior conviction were not immediately released.

The investigation, led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), quickly connected America to the illegal weapons. The West Virginia State Police, Doddridge County Sheriff’s Office, and Salem Police Department all contributed to the investigation, piecing together the evidence that ultimately led to his conviction. The ATF’s Louisville Field Division handled the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Wagner spearheaded the prosecution, successfully arguing that America’s actions posed a clear and present danger to law enforcement and the community. The ten-year sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and serves as a warning to others who attempt to circumvent gun laws. Sources close to the investigation suggest America has a history of run-ins with local law enforcement, though details remain scarce.

The sentencing of Richard Edward America, III, underscores the ongoing battle against illegal firearms and the commitment of federal agencies to prosecute those who endanger public safety. While the ten-year sentence offers a measure of relief, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day and the prevalence of illegal weapons in some communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia, led by William J. Ihlenfeld, II, continues to prioritize cases involving violent crime and firearms offenses.

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