A Minneapolis man with a history of felony convictions faces a substantial prison sentence after being caught with a firearm. Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick announced the sentencing following a 2024 incident involving George Matthews IV, 34, on a light-rail train in Minneapolis. According to court documents, a concerned 911 caller informed authorities of a man who had allegedly threatened to shoot someone, later found to be Matthews, in possession of a loaded firearm.
The situation unfolded on June 11, 2024, initiating a response by law enforcement at the light-rail station located at Lake Street and Hiawatha Avenue. Responding to the description given by the anonymous caller, police identified a suspect matching the description and carrying a blue nylon drawstring backpack. With a Kimber Micro 9mm pistol and several rounds of ammunition stashed inside, Matthews attempted to evade arrest by fleeing the scene, but was swiftly apprehended by the officers after discarding the backpack containing the firearm.
Matthews, who previously faced convictions for aggravated robbery, is federally prohibited from firearm possession under law. During the hearing, he pleaded guilty to one count of illegally possessing a firearm as a felon. On January 15, U.S. District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced him to six years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, as detailed in a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The collaborative effort for this case involved the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Metro Transit Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Forbes took the reins in prosecuting Matthews. This sentencing arrives amid ongoing discussions surrounding gun violence and illegal firearms within the Twin Cities, hoping to serve as a deterrent for those considering violating firearm laws.
