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Press Release

Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty To Robbery And Discharging A Firearm In Furtherance Of A Crime Of Violence

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, Middle District of Florida

Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Marques Howard (31, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to commit that robbery, discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Howard faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the robbery offense, up to 20 years for the conspiracy offense, and up to 10 years for the possession of the firearm offense. The discharging of the firearm charge carries a minimum mandatory term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment. Howard has also agreed to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court documents, on April 20, 2022, Howard robbed an individual at their residence in the Tampa area. During the robbery, Howard, a convicted felon, discharged his firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Howard is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Updated December 22, 2022

Topics
Project Safe Neighborhoods
Violent Crime
Firearms Offenses