In an effort to address the ongoing issue of gun violence in Washington, D.C., a federal indictment has been handed down to Raymond Davon Benson, 32, charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. As reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, this action forms part of the “Make D.C. Safe Again” initiative, aimed at tightening the reins on firearms violations and violent crime in the District.
U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., along with Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the ATF, and MPD Chief Pamela Smith, announced the indictment as a strategic move to invoke federal authority in local crime suppression. The initiative seeks not just to apprehend but also to secure pre-trial detention for individuals charged with federal firearms offenses, setting a tone of zero tolerance for repeat offenders. On March 29, MPD officers spotted Benson on U Street NW, his actions leading to a chase, and the recovery of a loaded firearm.
The incident in question began with Benson casually holding a red solo cup, commonly associated with public drinking in the U Street area. On noticing police officers, Benson allegedly tossed the cup, replete with amber liquid, away and took off on foot. In the ensuing pursuit, officers claim to have seen Benson throw a weapon, namely a Cobray M-11 handgun equipped with a high-capacity magazine carrying around 30 rounds, before they eventually caught up with him. His previous felony conviction bars him from possessing firearms, complicating his legal situation further.
This case, bolstered by the investigative efforts of the ATF Washington Field Office and MPD, is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas G. Strong. If convicted, Benson faces serious ramifications under federal law, as D.C.'s law enforcement continues its crusade against the surge of gun-related crimes. The “Make D.C. Safe Again” campaign represents a broader federal intervention into local districts grappling with the endemic issue of gun violence, and Benson's indictment underscores the aggressive stance the initiative is prepared to take.
