Federal Jury Finds Tampa Convicted Felon Guilty of Possessing a Firearm Under the Armed Career Criminal Act

Tampa, Florida - A federal jury has found Shannon Pernell Brown (40, Tampa) guilty of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon and possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute it. Brown faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison under the Armed Career Criminal Act. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 3, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.

According to evidence presented at trial, on August 31, 2024, Brown attempted to flee from officers from the Tampa Police Department on an electric bicycle after they attempted to stop him for a traffic violation. Brown subsequently lost control of the bicycle as he turned a corner and crashed. Officers detained him and located more than a pound of marijuana in multiple packages along with a digital scale in a backpack that he was wearing. Officers also recovered a loaded Glock handgun in a separate satchel that Brown was wearing across his chest.

Brown had previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including trafficking in cocaine and two convictions for possession of cocaine with the intent to sell or deliver, each of which occurred on a different occasion. As a convicted felon, Brown is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.