ST. PAUL, MN – A repeat offender is facing federal time after admitting to having a loaded weapon despite a lengthy criminal history, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today. Tavaris Michael Dixon, 32, of Robbinsdale, pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a felon, a charge that carries a potential prison sentence.
The case unfolded after authorities determined Dixon was in possession of a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol, complete with a Streamlight TLR-6 laser/light attachment, on June 22, 2022. This wasn’t a simple oversight. Dixon is already barred from owning any firearms due to previous felony convictions in Hennepin County. Those convictions include a 2008 sentence for aggravated robbery and kidnapping – a clear indication of a violent past.
According to court documents, Dixon entered his guilty plea before Judge Eric C. Tostrud in U.S. District Court. The specifics of the sentencing hearing remain unannounced, leaving the length of his impending prison term uncertain. However, federal guidelines for repeat offenders often result in significant jail time, especially involving firearms.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) spearheaded the investigation, working in conjunction with the Minneapolis Police Department. Investigators likely connected Dixon to the firearm through ballistics testing or other forensic evidence, though details of that evidence haven’t been released publicly.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey E. Middlecamp and Justin A. Wesley are prosecuting the case, signaling the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating illegal gun possession, particularly by individuals with a history of violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, led by Andrew M. Luger, is consistently pursuing these cases in an effort to curb gun violence.
Dixon’s plea is a stark reminder that even after serving time for previous offenses, individuals intent on criminal activity continue to pose a threat to public safety. The St. Paul Field Division of the ATF will continue to work with local law enforcement to keep illegal weapons off the streets and prosecute those who violate federal gun laws.
Related Federal Cases
- Tavaris Michael Dixon, Possessing Firearm as Felon, Minnesota 2024 · Illinois
- Justin Cutbank, Illegal Firearm Possession, Minnesota 2024 · Minnesota
- Justin Cutbank, Illegal Firearm Possession, Minnesota 2023 · Minnesota
- Travon Blackman, Illegal Firearm Possession, Minnesota 2023 · Minnesota
- Miklos Terrel DATES Jr., Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Minnesota · Minnesota
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