A federal jury has found Shannon Pernell Brown, age 40, 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 faces a mandatory 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 highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address gun crimes involving repeat offenders. The conviction stems from an incident on August 31, 2024, when officers from the Tampa Police Department attempted to stop Brown for a traffic violation while he was riding an electric bicycle.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Brown tried to flee but crashed his bicycle while turning a corner. Officers detained him and found more than a pound of marijuana packaged in multiple bags and a digital scale in his backpack. A loaded Glock handgun was also recovered from a satchel worn across his chest.
Brown had prior felony convictions, including trafficking in cocaine and two separate convictions for possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver. As a result of these previous offenses, he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
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 underscores continued collaboration between local and federal authorities in addressing violent crime involving firearms.
