DENVER- The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces Zachary Lawhead, age 35, of Colorado Springs, was sentenced to 92 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon and possession with intent to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine.
According to the plea agreement, prior to November 1, 2021, the defendant was a fugitive who was the subject of three outstanding Colorado state arrest warrants. On November 2, 2021, officers with the Colorado Springs Police Department were able to locate him at an apartment complex. Detectives approached the defendant and took him into custody on the outstanding warrants. When they searched him, detectives found several baggies containing methamphetamine and heroin which he intended to distribute. Officers also recovered a loaded semi-automatic pistol in his back pocket, which he was prohibited from possessing as a convicted felon.
Chief Judge Philip A. Brimmer sentenced the defendant on September 16, 2022. He also sentenced him to 4 years of supervised release.
“Reducing gun violence and drug trafficking are our top priorities at the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan. “Felons should take note: with the help of our partners at the ATF, we will enforce the federal law that prohibits them from possessing a firearm or ammunition.”
“Guns and drugs in the hands of prolific offenders greatly contribute to violent crime,” said Special Agent in Charge David S. Booth. “Together, through strong partnerships with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our local law enforcement partners, we not only combat violent crime, but stop violent offenders.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Prosecution was handled by the Violent Crime and Immigration Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado.
Case Number: 21-cr-00404