The illicit trade of firearms took a dark turn in Martinsburg, West Virginia, as two convicted felons from Virginia faced the music for their unlawful possession of guns. Micky Knight Matheson, 34, and Joshua Thomas Smith, 30, both of Winchester, Virginia, were recently sentenced in federal court for their involvement in a firearms-related crime.
According to the investigation, in late 2013, Matheson and Smith pawned off four shotguns and one rifle near Martinsburg. The duo’s actions were in clear violation of federal law, as both men had prior felony convictions.
Matheson’s rap sheet includes convictions for credit card theft, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, forgery, uttering, and credit card fraud in the Circuit Court for the City of Winchester, Virginia. Smith, on the other hand, was previously convicted of the felony offense of distribution of cocaine in the same court.
The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided over the sentencing.
Smith received an 80-month prison sentence for his crimes, while Matheson was handed a 57-month sentence. The harsh sentences serve as a reminder of the serious consequences facing individuals who choose to engage in illicit activities, particularly those involving firearms.
The sentencing of Matheson and Smith sends a strong message to the community that the trade of firearms by convicted felons will not be tolerated. The law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation should be commended for their diligence in bringing these individuals to justice.
The case highlights the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the need for a strong stance against gun-related crimes. As the Grimy Times continues to report on such cases, it is clear that the fight against gun violence and crime is ongoing and requires the concerted efforts of the community, law enforcement, and the judicial system.
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Related Federal Cases
- West Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Gun Purchase Fraud · West Virginia
- NC Man Sentenced for Gun Possession in WV · North Carolina
- Elkins Man Pleads Guilty to Gun Possession · West Virginia
- Martinsburg Man Sentenced for Gun Possession · West Virginia
- Weirton Resident David Mallicone Arraigned for Illegal Gun Possession · West Virginia
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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