A federal jury found Shannon Pernell Brown guilty of possessing a firearm or ammunition as a convicted felon and possessing marijuana with intent to distribute, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe on Mar. 4. Brown, age 40 and from Tampa, faces a minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life in federal prison under the Armed Career Criminal Act. His sentencing is scheduled for September 3.
The case centers on an incident that occurred on August 31, 2024, when officers from the Tampa Police Department attempted to stop Brown for a traffic violation. According to evidence presented at trial, Brown tried to flee on an electric bicycle but crashed after turning a corner. Officers detained him and discovered more than a pound of marijuana in multiple packages along with a digital scale in his backpack. A loaded Glock handgun was also recovered from a satchel worn across his chest.
Brown has prior felony convictions, including trafficking in cocaine and two separate convictions for possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver. Each conviction occurred on different occasions. As a result of these prior offenses, Brown is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang is prosecuting the case.
This conviction highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address gun violence and drug distribution involving repeat offenders.
