Multi-Convicted Felon Receives Almost 20 Years In Prison For Possessing A Firearm

Augusta, GA: Jacky Ray Burley, 51, of Warrenton, Georgia, was sentenced yesterday before United States District Court Judge J. Randal Hall to 235 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a multi-convicted felon.  There is no parole in the federal system.

Evidence presented during Burley’s guilty plea and sentencing hearings revealed that on November 25, 2013, Burley used a shotgun to robthe Dollar General store located at 644 Main Street in Thomson, Georgia.  Burley fled the store and was later arrested after a high-speed car chase ended at a roadblock in Warren County, Georgia.  Before the Dollar General robbery, Burley’s criminal history included three prior burglary convictions.  As a result of his lengthy criminal history, Burley qualified as an Armed Career Criminal, which subjected him to a minimum 15-year prison sentence.  Judge Hall’s sentence exceeded the mandatory minimum by almost 5 years.

Burley’s case was prosecuted as part of Project Ceasefire, a joint firearms initiative of the U. S. Attorney’s Office, the ATF, and local law enforcement agencies.  Project Ceasefire is a cooperative effort between federal and local law enforcement agencies to combat gun crime by targeting felons previously convicted of drug offenses or crimes of violence and who are found to be in possession of firearms, as well as those who commit violent gun offenses.

United States Attorney Tarver said. “Law enforcement’s top priority is the safety of our citizens.  We will bring the full force of justice on dangerous criminals who possess firearms.  Those dangerous felons who possess firearms will be investigated, prosecuted, and can expect to serve lengthy prison sentences in federal prison.”

“This sentence is another reminder that ATF remains on the frontline of preventing violent crimes along with our law enforcement partners,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Carl Walker.  “We will not allow residents to suffer such criminal behavior, especially that which threatens the safety of innocent civilians and law enforcement officers.”
 
Burley’s case was investigated by the ATF.  Assistant United States Attorney Lamont A. Belk prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.  For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.