Steven Patrick Crabtree, Federal Gun Crime, West Virginia 2024

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – In a shocking turn of events, 35-year-old Steven Patrick Crabtree, a local resident, has pleaded guilty to the federal crime of being a felon in possession of a firearm. This disturbing incident highlights the need for stricter gun laws and tougher penalties for those who break them.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 4, 2024, law enforcement officers responded to reports of an individual shooting at others outside a Buffington Street residence in Huntington. Officers encountered Crabtree, who matched the description of the shooting suspect. A loaded Smith & Wesson model SD9VE 9mm pistol was recovered from Crabtree, and later determined to have been stolen.

Crabtree knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his prior felony convictions for conspiracy to deliver not less than 10 grams nor more than 100 grams of heroin in Wayne County Circuit Court on May 30, 2018, and attempt to commit a felony in Cabell County Circuit Court on March 21, 2017.

Crabtree, who is currently facing charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm, is scheduled to be sentenced on November 25, 2024. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

United States Attorney Will Thompson commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for their role in apprehending Crabtree and bringing him to justice.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in local communities. The Department has strengthened PSN based on core principles including fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, and setting focused enforcement priorities.

Crabtree’s guilty plea serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of committing gun crimes and the importance of community-based programs in preventing violence. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this case will impact the community and whether it will lead to further changes in gun laws and enforcement strategies.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-86.

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