An Indianapolis man, Devron Coleman, 39, has been sentenced to more than a decade in federal prison for the armed robbery of a Dollar General store on the Far East side of Indianapolis. The sentencing, according to the United States Department of Justice, marks a significant step in addressing violent crime in the area.

Federal Charges and Sentencing

Coleman pleaded guilty to several charges, including Interference of Commerce by Robbery, Brandishing a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He received a sentence of exactly 121 months, reflecting the severity of his actions.

Prior Convictions

Coleman’s criminal history includes multiple felonies, such as being a felon in possession of a handgun, operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, and pointing a firearm at another person. These prior convictions rendered him ineligible to legally possess a firearm.

Incident Details

Court documents reveal that on Aug. 30, 2023, Coleman entered the Dollar General store, brandished a firearm, and demanded cash from an employee. During the robbery, he inadvertently took a tracking device from the store, which aided law enforcement in swiftly locating him. Upon searching his residence, authorities recovered $200 in cash and the Smith and Wesson firearm used in the crime.

Law Enforcement Response

United States Attorney Zachary A. Myers emphasized the commitment to reducing violence, particularly by targeting illegally armed felons. The collaborative efforts of the FBI, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), and federal prosecutors led to Coleman’s arrest and subsequent conviction.

FBI Indianapolis Special Agent Herbert J. Stapleton reiterated the importance of holding accountable those who choose to violate federal firearm laws, highlighting the serious risks posed to communities by armed felons.

Supervision and Restitution

In addition to his prison sentence, Coleman will be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release and is required to pay $200 in restitution.

Upholding Public Safety

The sentencing of Devron Coleman underscores the commitment of law enforcement to safeguarding communities from violent crime. By holding repeat offenders accountable and enforcing federal firearm laws, authorities strive to enhance public safety and prevent future incidents of armed robbery and violence.

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