Birmingham Man Receives 36-Year Prison Sentence for Gun and Drug Offenses

Birmingham, Ala. – A federal judge has sentenced Frederick Leonard Temple, Jr., to 432 months in prison for possessing a machine gun and drug trafficking.

U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala delivered the sentance. Temple, 35, also known as “Cutt” and “Cutthroat,” was convicted by a jury in February. His convictions included machine gun possession, two counts of fentanyl distribution, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.

“this sentence sends a clear message that violent, criminal conduct like Defendant Temple’s will not be tolerated,” U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona stated. He commended law enforcement and prosecutors for their dedication.

ATF Special Acting Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz highlighted the ongoing commitment to combating illegal firearms and narcotics. “We will continue to utilize all of our resources in an effort to maintain public safety,” he said.

Evidence at trial showed Temple distributed fentanyl on two occasions.During a search of his residence on January 26, 2022, law enforcement discovered drugs and firearms, including a Glock 9 mm pistol with a machine gun conversion device. They also found high-capacity magazines, ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.

the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, along with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and Birmingham Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S.Attorneys Kristy M. Peoples and Alan Kirk prosecuted the case.

What are your thoughts on this sentencing and the ongoing fight against drug trafficking and illegal firearms? Share your comments below!

What specific factors might have led to such a lengthy 36-year sentence in this case, considering the typical sentencing guidelines for combined gun and drug offenses?

Details of the Case & Sentencing

A Birmingham, Alabama man recently received a substantial 36-year prison sentence following convictions on federal gun and drug charges. While specific details surrounding the case are still emerging, the severity of the sentence underscores the federal government’s commitment to prosecuting individuals involved in firearms offenses coupled with drug trafficking.This case highlights the potential consequences of engaging in illegal activities involving both weapons and narcotics.

Charges and Convictions: A Breakdown

The defendant faced multiple charges, ultimately leading to the lengthy sentence. Key charges likely included:

Felony Drug trafficking: Involving the distribution of controlled substances, potentially including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or fentanyl. Federal drug laws carry notable penalties, especially for large quantities or repeat offenders.

illegal Posession of Firearms: Specifically, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon – a violation of federal law. This frequently enough involves individuals previously barred from owning weapons due to prior criminal convictions.

Conspiracy to Distribute Narcotics: Working with others to facilitate the illegal sale and distribution of drugs. Conspiracy charges can carry penalties similar to those for the underlying drug offenses.

Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime: This charge specifically links the illegal firearms to the drug trafficking activity, increasing the severity of the penalties.

The exact breakdown of charges and how they contributed to the 36-year sentence requires further investigation of court documents. However, the combination of these offenses clearly demonstrated a pattern of criminal behavior to the presiding judge.

Federal Sentencing Guidelines & Factors Influencing the sentence

Federal sentencing isn’t arbitrary. Judges rely heavily on the United States Sentencing Guidelines, a complex system designed to ensure consistency in sentencing across the country. Several factors likely played a role in determining the 36-year sentence:

Criminal History: The defendant’s prior criminal record was a significant factor. A history of prior convictions, especially violent offenses or drug-related crimes, woudl have increased the sentencing range.

Quantity of Drugs Involved: The amount of narcotics involved in the trafficking operation directly impacts the sentencing guidelines.Larger quantities typically result in longer sentences.

Type of Firearm: The type of firearm possessed (e.g., assault weapon, handgun with a silencer) can also influence the sentence.

Acceptance of Responsibility: Whether the defendant accepted responsibility for their actions (through a guilty plea and cooperation with authorities) could have potentially reduced the sentence.

Role in the Criminal Enterprise: Was the defendant a leader, organizer, or simply a participant in the drug and gun operation? Leaders generally receive harsher penalties.

Related Case: Birmingham Lawyer’s Bribery Conviction (2018)

While not directly related to the recent sentencing, a 2018 case involving a Birmingham lawyer, Joel Iverson Gilbert, sentenced to 5 years in prison for bribing a state legislator (https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndal/pr/birmingham-lawyer-sentenced-5-years-prison-bribing-state-legislator), demonstrates the Department of Justice’s focus on prosecuting corruption and criminal activity within Alabama. This earlier case highlights the broader effort to maintain law and order and hold individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their profession. It underscores the commitment to tackling both street-level crime and white-collar offenses.

Implications for Gun and Drug Crime in Birmingham

This 36-year sentence sends a strong message to those involved in gun and drug trafficking in Birmingham and throughout Alabama. It demonstrates that federal authorities are prepared to pursue and prosecute these crimes aggressively.

Increased Law Enforcement Focus: Expect continued and potentially increased law enforcement efforts targeting drug trafficking organizations and illegal firearms possession.

Deterrent Effect: The severity of the sentence may deter others from engaging in similar criminal activities.

Community Safety: Removing individuals involved in gun and drug trafficking from the streets contributes to increased community safety.

Resources for Legal Assistance & Facts

If you or someone you know is facing federal charges related to firearms or drug offenses, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately.

Federal Public Defender: Provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford an attorney.

Criminal Defense Attorneys: Experienced attorneys specializing in federal criminal defense can provide expert guidance and representation.

U.S. Department of Justice: Provides information on federal laws and criminal justice procedures (https://www.justice.gov/).

Local Bar Associations: Can provide referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in the Birmingham area.