The Feds this month unsealed atleast 8 separate gun criminal complaints in Detroit. Some defendants were caught on the streets, while others drew federal attention by posting videos and photos of themselves with weapons on social media despite being barred from owning them.
Quantez Smith-Thedford, Detroit – Accused of flaunting guns online, including a Glock with an extended magazine. Federal agents said the weapons they seized from his home matched those in his posts. Court filings note agents executed a search warrant at his house, where they found the firearm in his bedroom.
Justin Norris, Detroit – Prosecutors say Norris regularly posted videos and photos of himself holding firearms online, despite his felony record. When feds searched his home, they found multiple guns and drugs. He allegedly tried to run but was arrested, with investigators pointing to his social media as key evidence. Records say the firearms recovered matched those Norris had shown off in his posts.
Jamal Clay, Detroit – Officers said Clay tried to stash a revolver under a car during a domestic disturbance but was caught in the act. Prosecutors say the gun was loaded when it was recovered.
Burthran Morrow, Detroit – Found in a park with a handgun in his pocket. He admitted to police he did not have a license to carry. Officers also confirmed he had prior felony convictions barring him from possession.
Calvin Carter III, Detroit – Linked to gunfire detected by ShotSpotter. Police recovered casings in the street and matched them to a weapon found in Carter’s possession. Prosecutors say surveillance footage also tied him to the scene.
Bruce Greene, Detroit – Arrested after officers spotted a gun in plain view in his vehicle. Ballistics later linked casings from the area back to the weapon, and prosecutors say the gun had been reported stolen.
Shawndarius Smith, Detroit – Pulled over outside a liquor store, where officers said they smelled drugs and discovered a pistol under his seat. Records note Smith had prior felony convictions, making it illegal for him to have a firearm.
Marlow Jones II, Detroit – Accused of fleeing from a stolen truck. Investigators say he tossed a handgun while running before being caught. The firearm was later recovered and found to be stolen.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison is promising stepped-up enforcement after a wave of shootings in the city.
“We do know who you are. You will see stepped-up enforcement from local, from state. And you’ve got the feds’ full attention. Expect indictments to come as well.”
