Valdosta Man Convicted for Illegal Firearm Possession Following Domestic Violence Incident

Angelo Devon Williams, a 35-year-old resident with a history of violence, has been found guilty of illegal possession of a firearm by a federal jury on November 14. The conviction stems from a domestic violence incident triggered by a child’s courageous attempt to protect his mother.

The trial, which commenced on November 13 before U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson at the federal courthouse in Macon, revealed that Williams faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a possible $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for March 20, 2024, in Valdosta, Georgia, with the defendant ineligible for parole.

Williams, with a documented history of violent criminal activities, was apprehended after officers discovered an AK-47 style firearm during a domestic violence investigation on the night of July 26, 2020. The incident unfolded when a child dialed 911, reporting the assault on his mother.

Upon arrival, Valdosta Police Department officers found the victim outside the residence, displaying significant injuries. The victim recounted that Williams had allegedly assaulted her, leading to a physical altercation where Williams also allegedly pushed the child. The child sought refuge at a neighbor’s house and called 911.

Further investigation revealed that Williams had taken the victim’s rental car keys and refused to return them. The vehicle, containing Williams’ belongings, including the illegal firearm, became a focal point in the case. Williams, with prior felony convictions for robbery/carjacking and felony fleeing/attempting to elude, was found in violation of the law prohibiting convicted felons from possessing firearms.

U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to violent felons possessing firearms, stating, “We have zero tolerance for violent convicted felons who illegally possess firearms.” Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Valdosta office, highlighted the commitment to removing violent criminals from neighborhoods to enhance safety.

The case, part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, underscores collaborative efforts to reduce violent crime. The evidence-based program focuses on targeted enforcement against the most violent offenders, coupled with prevention and reentry programs for sustainable crime reduction.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Valdosta Police Department.