ABERDEEN, SD – Tevaughn Brownlee, 27, of Aberdeen, South Dakota, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced Monday for illegally possessing a firearm. U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann handed down a four-year, nine-month sentence, followed by three years of supervised release. The case highlights the continued crackdown on individuals prohibited from owning weapons due to prior criminal activity.
The incident unfolded on September 11, 2022, in Aberdeen, during what authorities describe as a domestic violence situation. Brownlee, already a convicted felon in Illinois, was found to be in possession of a Smith and Wesson 45 caliber pistol. Federal law clearly prohibits anyone with a felony conviction from owning or possessing firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Aberdeen Police Department launched a joint investigation that led to Brownlee’s indictment in November 2022.
Brownlee ultimately pleaded guilty on July 24, 2023, acknowledging his violation of federal law. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges led the prosecution, presenting evidence that solidified the case against Brownlee. The sentence includes a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, a small contribution toward supporting those impacted by violent crime.
This isn’t just about a single gun, though. U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell emphasized that the prosecution is part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broader initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence nationwide. PSN focuses on collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement, along with community organizations, to address the root causes of violence and improve public safety. The Department of Justice relaunched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021.
The investigation revealed a pattern of disregard for the law, given Brownlee’s prior felony conviction. The ATF and Aberdeen PD worked diligently to build a solid case, ensuring that Brownlee would be held accountable for his actions. Sources within the ATF stated that this case serves as a warning to others who attempt to illegally obtain or possess firearms.
Following the sentencing, Brownlee was immediately taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on further developments related to firearms offenses in the region. The case number has not been released at this time.
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- Christopher Hutton, Illegal Firearm Possession, Hammond IN, 2023 · Illinois
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