Evergreen Reporter

Federal firearms charges have been brought against three individuals in the Southern District of Georgia, according to newly returned indictments. These cases involve allegations of felons illegally possessing firearms. Other defendants have either been sentenced to federal prison or are awaiting further proceedings after pleading guilty to similar charges.

“Removing guns from those who are prohibited from carrying them is a vital part of fighting violent crime,” stated Tara M. Lyons, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “We appreciate the efforts of our law enforcement partners in keeping our streets safe.”

The prosecutions are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort involving federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI. The initiative aims to reduce violent crime by targeting convicted felons who unlawfully possess firearms.

The individuals indicted in March include D’Vonta Ealy, 30, from Thomson, Georgia; Shawn Hakeem Sibert, 33, from Savannah; and Rashaud Johnson, 41, also from Savannah. They face various charges related to firearm possession and drug trafficking crimes.

Several defendants have recently been adjudicated on federal firearms charges:

- Kenyatta Dunn Nero was sentenced to over 15 years in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

- Jacorey Rivers received a 15-year sentence for possession of a machine gun and intent to distribute fentanyl.

- Jordan Beverly Howard was sentenced to six years for firearm possession by a felon.

- Joshua Robert Ward received over 15 years for intent to distribute methamphetamine.

- O’Kere Shields was sentenced to three years for firearm possession by a felon.

- Raquan Williams received nearly four years for making false statements during firearm purchase.

- Christopher Jeramy Blair was sentenced to over three years after investigators seized multiple firearms at his residence.

- Eddie Leonard Tolbert received nearly four years for firearm possession by a felon.

Several other defendants await sentencing after pleading guilty to various firearm-related offenses.

Under federal law, it is illegal for certain individuals—such as felons or unlawful users of controlled substances—to possess firearms. It is also unlawful to possess firearms in connection with drug trafficking or violent crimes or attempt such purchases if prohibited.

For more information on lawful purchasing practices regarding firearms from the ATF: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atfw-form-4473