Savannah Man Convicted of Possessing Ammunition as a Felon Following 2021 Shooting

Charlie Sapp, 58, of Savannah, has been found guilty of possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, stemming from a shooting incident that occurred on October 8, 2021. The conviction, handed down after a two-day federal trial, carries a potential sentence of 10 years in prison, followed by supervised release.

According to court records, Sapp pointed a firearm at another individual and fired three times. An eyewitness immediately called 911, and Savannah Police Department officers arrived within five minutes, recovering two 9mm Luger shell casings at the scene. Analysis by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives confirmed the casings were ammunition under federal law and had been fired from Sapp’s firearm. Sapp was prohibited from possessing ammunition due to prior felony convictions in Chatham County.

Sapp had previously faced trial in November 2022 in Chatham County for the same conduct, but that trial did not result in a conviction.

Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons emphasized the seriousness of the federal offense, noting there is no parole in the federal system. ATF Acting ASAC Robert Davis highlighted the agency’s commitment to public safety, while Savannah Police Chief Lenny B. Gunther praised law enforcement’s efforts in securing the conviction.

The case was investigated by the ATF and Savannah Police Department and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Makeia R. Jonese and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Bondura.