R. Booth Goodwin II, United States Attorney
Southern District of West Virginia
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Melvin Smith
June 27, 2011 melvin.smith@usdoj.gov
CHARLESTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ILLEGAL FIREARM POSSESSION
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Mark A. Johnson, 20, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today in federal court before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston to being a felon in possession of a firearm. On December 8, 2010, law enforcement officers searching for defendant in accordance with an arrest warrant, found him hiding in the attic of a Charleston residence at the time. Following the defendant’s arrest, officers found a loaded.22 caliber pistol in the area where he was located. After being advised of his Miranda rights, the defendant subsequently admitted ownership of the pistol.
Johnson faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on October 3, 2011.
This case is also being brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.
The investigation was conducted by the Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Monica Dillon is in charge of the prosecution.
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