CHALMETTE, LA – Tyree King, 33, of Chalmette, is facing serious federal time after being indicted on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing an illegal machinegun, authorities announced Monday. The case, brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, adds another layer of violence to a city already grappling with escalating crime rates.
According to the indictment unsealed July 21, 2023, King is charged with violating Title 18 United States Code Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8) for the illegal firearm possession. More damningly, he’s also accused of violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2) by possessing a fully automatic weapon – a machinegun. Details regarding the type of firearm or machinegun were not immediately released.
If convicted on the first count, King could face up to 15 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervised release, alongside a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The charge of possessing a machinegun carries a maximum sentence of 10 years, the same hefty fine, supervised release, and the assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans was quick to point out that the indictment is merely an accusation, and King is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, highlighting a collaborative push to curb gun violence in the region. This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program aiming to reduce violent crime by fostering trust with communities and focusing on strategic enforcement.
The Department of Justice launched a renewed PSN strategy in May 2021, emphasizing community engagement, violence prevention, and focused enforcement priorities. Whether this strategy will truly make a dent in the city’s crime statistics remains to be seen, but officials insist it’s a crucial component of their approach. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit is leading the prosecution of the case against King.
Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds, bringing you the unvarnished truth from the courts. The feds are sending a clear message: illegal gun possession won’t be tolerated. The question now is whether they can build a case strong enough to put Tyree King away for the long haul. Details regarding a court date have not been released at this time.
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