William Morrison, Jr., Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, New York 2024

BUFFALO, N.Y. – In a disturbing display of disregard for the law, William Morrison, Jr., 27, of Buffalo, NY, was sentenced to serve 21 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Morrison’s crime was uncovered late in the evening of July 19, 2024, when Buffalo Police responded to the area of Ashley and Mohr Streets for a report of a man with a gun. A caller reported that the suspect, later identified as Morrison, was wearing an ankle bracelet and waiving a black pistol around. The caller then reported that the suspect was inside an Ashley Street residence, which was referred to as a “dope house”.

When officers arrived, they observed Morrison running from the rear of the residence. Morrison was quickly apprehended. Officers searched the area of the yard where Morrison had fled and recovered a loaded 9mm handgun.

In November 2019, Morrison was convicted of a felony gun charge in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Interim Commissioner Craig Macy, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo.

Morrison’s sentence stems from his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, a charge that carries serious consequences for those who choose to disregard the law. The sentence handed down by U.S. District judge Lawrence J. Vilardo serves as a reminder that the justice system will hold accountable those who seek to undermine public safety.

The case against Morrison highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat gun violence and protect the community. The successful investigation and prosecution of Morrison’s case demonstrate the effectiveness of collaboration between local and federal authorities in addressing serious crimes.

Related Federal Cases