A Raleigh man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to firearms charges related to an incident where he pistol-whipped and shot a victim. Jeremiah Jermaine Debnam, 30, received a 154-month sentence for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office release.
Debnam's case began on July 5, 2023, when he was involved in a shooting at a shopping center parking lot. The Raleigh Police Department responded to reports of a shooting on New Bern Avenue, where they found a victim with two gunshot wounds. Although Debnam fled the scene, he was quickly identified as the suspect. Police were able to connect him to the crime through forensic analysis and a firearm discarded during his escape.
U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. emphasized Raleigh's commitment to public safety, stating, "Raleigh is one of the safest large cities in America and we aim to keep it that way," in the same release. He also highlighted efforts to reduce gun violence through cooperation between prosecutors, law enforcement, and community groups.
After Debnam's capture on July 6, he attempted to escape during a car chase. During the pursuit, he discarded a stolen, loaded 9mm pistol, which was later found in the woods. Officers also discovered fentanyl and crack cocaine on Debnam's person. He had a history of felony convictions and was on supervised release for a previous federal conviction at the time of the shooting.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Raleigh Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case. The sentencing was carried out by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan.
