In the case that underscores the extensive approach of law enforcement to tackle gun violence, a Tennessee man has been handed down an 18-year-plus sentence for illegal firearm possession. Markel Strong, 29, of Memphis, fell afoul of the Armed Career Criminal Act, having been convicted of past violent felonies, and his latest act of unlawfulness resulted in a considerable stint of 221 months behind bars.
The ruling passed down by a federal judge also includes three years of supervised release, according to a release by the U.S. Department of Justice. This decision is a clear signal to others that gun violence and the activities that contribute to it won’t be tolerated. "Gun violence poses a significant danger to the safety and security of our communities," were the remarks of Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant echoed this sentiment, stating that "There is and ought to be a significant consequence for such recidivist criminal behavior."
The Memphis Police Department's routine traffic stop on January 19, 2022, for a vehicle with illegal tint led to the discovery of a firearm in Strong's car—quite conspicuously placed in the front seat near the center console. This happened despite Strong's prohibition from possessing any firearms due to his past criminal record, which included numerous violent felony convictions. His trial, which concluded on August 19, had a jury convict Strong; they also determined that his prior convictions did indeed qualify him for the enhanced punishment that the Armed Career Criminal Act stipulates.
At Strong's sentencing hearing, the prosecution presented further proof of the defendant's violent tendencies, including evidence of his behavior while in custody and the connection of the seized firearm to other crimes. The collective efforts of ATF, MPD, and federal prosecutors underscore a collective pledge to deal with such a menacing element in our society. "These efforts signify what can be accomplished when we work together with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to combat violent crime," commented Special Agent in Charge Jamey VanVliet of the ATF Nashville Field Division, per the U.S. Department of Justice.
