MARSHALL, Texas - A 48-year-old Gilmer, Texas man has pleaded guilty to federal firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.

                Eric Jason Wright pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Roy S. Payne.

According to information presented in court, on Aug. 7, 2010, Wright was found to be in possession of a shotgun in Upshur County, Texas.  Further investigation revealed Wright had been convicted of delivery of a controlled substance in Upshur County in 1998.  As a convicted felon, Wright is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.  Wright was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 2, 2011. 

Wright faces up to 10 years in federal prison.  A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Upshur County Sheriff's Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.

 

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