Aiken Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Gun Following Five Points Traffic Stop

COLUMBIA, S.C. - Devron Jakell Duncan, 33, of Aiken, has been sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

On Feb. 15, 2023, a University of South Carolina Police Officer was patrolling the Five Points area of Columbia. Around 2 a.m., the officer stopped a vehicle driven by Duncan. Duncan refused the officer's commands to stay in the vehicle, pushed the officer, and ran. After apprehending Duncan, USCPD officers searched the area and found a loaded 9 mm pistol that Duncan had tossed. Further investigation revealed that Duncan's girlfriend was the purchaser of the gun and had previously told law enforcement that Duncan stole the gun from her residence.

Duncan has prior convictions for domestic violence, illegally possessing a firearm, and kidnapping, among other offenses. These offenses prohibit Duncan from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Chief United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Duncan to 33 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys' offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department's commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump's Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the University of South Carolina Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Timmons prosecuted the case.

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