William Lee Taylor, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Washington 2024

Spokane Man Sentenced to 72 Months in Federal Prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm

Spokane, WA – William Lee Taylor, a 53-year-old Spokane resident, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

According to court proceedings, members of the Spokane Police Department’s Patrol Anti-Crime Team (PACT) attempted to contact Taylor while investigating an unrelated matter in the East 2100 block of Cataldo Avenue in Spokane, Washington. Taylor, who is a previously convicted felon, took flight and a foot pursuit ensued. While pursuing Taylor, an officer observed him reaching into his waistband. Taylor jumped a fence, fell to the ground, and was apprehended.

During a search of Taylor, officers discovered a .22 caliber, H. Schmidt (Ostheim), Model 21 S, 22 Magnum revolver. The revolver was loaded with five rounds of .22 caliber ammunition.

U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Harrington stated, “Previously convicted felons should be aware that there are serious criminal penalties associated with possessing any firearm or ammunition. Together with the ATF, and in partnership with local law enforcement partners such as the Spokane Police Department, prosecuting firearms-related crimes continues to be a priority for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington.”

The case was investigated by the Spokane Police Department PACT and the Spokane Resident Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Patrick J. Cashman, an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.

Senior U.S. District Judge Justin L. Quackenbush sentenced Taylor to a 72-month term of imprisonment and a three-year term of court supervision following release from federal prison.

This sentence serves as a warning to those who would attempt to possess firearms or ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington remains committed to prosecuting firearms-related crimes and keeping the community safe.

Related Federal Cases