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Felon in Possession of a Firearm Lands Ronald Sayles in Hot Water
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Ronald Sayles, 39, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Sayles admitted to possessing two handguns, a Taurus .32 caliber pistol and a Ruger 9 mm pistol, at his Charleston residence on December 7, 2014. This was in direct violation of his 2002 felony drug conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court, which prohibited him from owning any firearm under federal law.
Sayles’ guilty plea was announced by Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 20, 2016. The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation, with Assistant United States Attorney John J. Frail handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.
Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime, brought the case against Sayles. This initiative aims to network existing local programs targeting gun crime and make communities safer.
As Sayles prepares to face the consequences of his actions, the community is reminded of the importance of following the law and respecting the rights of others. The guilty plea serves as a warning to those who would attempt to break the law and put themselves and others at risk.
The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives commend the efforts of the investigators and prosecutors who brought this case to justice. Their dedication to keeping the community safe is truly commendable.
Sayles’ guilty plea is a stark reminder that the consequences of breaking the law can be severe. As the community moves forward, it is essential to prioritize public safety and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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