Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictment in Connection with Shooting at Gas Station Near Walmart in Monroe

MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Monroe man with firearm charges in connection with a shooting that took place earlier this year in Monroe, Louisiana.

Tristan Barber, 20, of Monroe, Louisiana, has been indicted and charged with two counts of possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and two counts of illegal possession of a machine gun. The indictment alleges that on or about March 29, 2024, and again on April 16, 2024, Barber knowingly possessed a Glock Model 22 Gen 3, .40 caliber pistol and ammunition, knowing he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.

It is further alleged in the indictment that on or about March 29, 2024, and again on April 16, 2024, Barber knowingly possessed a machine gun equipped with a conversion device.

“Our investigation has determined that this defendant, a convicted felon, is a very dangerous individual and has no respect for the law,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “As I have stated previously, we will aggressively charge and prosecute individuals that possess these firearms that are modified with switches and conversion devices.  Thanks to our state and local partners for a thorough investigation and apprehending this defendant.”

An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted, Barber faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison for possession of firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon, and up to 10 years for illegal possession of a machine gun, as well as up to 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. 

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Monroe Police Department and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Catherine Semmes and Trial Attorney Christopher Usher of the Department of Justice, Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

# # #