Torin Jenkins, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Louisiana 2023

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Torin Jenkins, 29, of New Orleans, is facing a decade behind bars after pleading guilty Tuesday to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The charge, a violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. He’s also looking at a mandatory $100 assessment fee.

The bust went down December 3, 2021, when New Orleans Police Department officers moved to arrest Jenkins on outstanding state warrants. According to court documents, Jenkins initially resisted, but then tossed a Glock Model 36, .45 caliber firearm, out the window of his residence. After surrendering, officers recovered the weapon, solidifying the federal charge.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans, leading the Eastern District of Louisiana, announced the guilty plea. While Evans touts the case as a victory for “Project Safe Neighborhoods” – a broad federal program aimed at reducing violent crime – the reality on the streets of New Orleans remains grim. The program, launched in 2021, focuses on community trust, violence prevention, strategic enforcement, and measurable results. But the numbers don’t lie: gun violence continues to plague the city.

The ATF played a key role in the investigation, working alongside the New Orleans Police Department. While officials celebrate inter-agency cooperation, sources within the NOPD whisper about stretched resources and a constant uphill battle against a tide of illegal firearms flooding the city. The ATF’s involvement highlights the federal government’s increasing focus on prosecuting gun crimes in areas with high rates of violence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Inga Petrovich, of the Violent Crime Unit, is prosecuting the case. Sentencing is scheduled for March 12, 2024. Jenkins’ defense team has yet to comment on the plea. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing when it occurs.

This case, like so many others in New Orleans, underscores the cycle of violence and the challenges of keeping guns out of the hands of those legally prohibited from owning them. The feds claim they’re making a difference, but for many in the city, it feels like more of the same.

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