Vashun Lewis, Gun Possession, Connecticut 2020

A federal jury in New Haven has found Vashun Lewis, also known as “V-Love,” 44, of New Haven, guilty of firearm possession offenses. The conviction marks the latest in a long string of run-ins with the law for Lewis, who has been convicted of numerous state offenses including robbery, assault, drug, weapon, and racketeering charges prior to 2017.

According to evidence presented during a trial before U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall, the New Haven Police Department received information that Lewis was engaged in an illegal cigarette trafficking operation, selling marijuana and heroin, and was known to possess a handgun. In 2017, Lewis was arrested after a court-authorized search of his residence revealed a 9mm semiautomatic handgun, more than 100 grams of marijuana, items used to process and package drugs for street sale, and more than 50 cartons of cigarettes.

The jury found Lewis guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. This investigation was conducted by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret M. Donovan and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis are prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and making neighborhoods safer. Lewis faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life when he is sentenced on May 28, 2020.

As part of his extensive criminal history, Lewis has been convicted of numerous state offenses prior to 2017, including robbery, assault, drug, weapon, and racketeering charges. His latest conviction stems from a 2017 arrest, where a 9mm semiautomatic handgun, over 100 grams of marijuana, and more than 50 cartons of cigarettes were seized from his New Haven residence.

The case is a prime example of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to crack down on gun and drug crime in the New Haven area. With a conviction rate of 100%, it is clear that the system is working to hold individuals accountable for their actions.

As Lewis awaits sentencing on May 28, 2020, the community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that another dangerous individual is being held accountable for their crimes. The New Haven Police Department and the ATF are to be commended for their tireless efforts in bringing Lewis to justice.

The prosecution of Lewis is a significant victory in the fight against gun and drug crime in the New Haven area. It serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies and prosecutors are dedicated to making the community a safer place for everyone.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ct/pr/new-haven-man-guilty-gun-possession-offenses