Tyrone James, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Illinois 2023

Crime Rocks East St. Louis: Man Caught with Firearm as Convicted Felon

In a shocking turn of events, 47-year-old Cahokia man Tyrone James was caught with a firearm in East St. Louis, Illinois, landing him a 33-month prison sentence. James pled guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On July 2021, law enforcement officers were investigating a shooting in East St. Louis and reviewed surveillance video at a motel. During the investigation, James was observed exiting and returning to a room holding a handgun. Despite not being involved in the shooting, PSEG investigators obtained consent to search the motel room and recovered a .22 caliber pistol.

When questioned by police, James admitted to having a prior felony possession and being unable to legally possess a firearm. The Illinois State Police Public Safety Enforcement Group unit conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Trippi prosecuted the case.

The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Rachelle Aud Crowe, expressed her support for the efforts of the Illinois State Police in improving public safety in East St. Louis. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly echoed Crowe’s sentiments, stating that the collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies and the public is creating safer communities.

As part of his sentence, James will serve three years of supervised release in addition to the 33-month prison term. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence in East St. Louis and the importance of community collaboration in achieving this goal.

With this conviction, the public can rest assured that those who break the law will be held accountable. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and bring you updates as more information becomes available.

Related Federal Cases