Joseph Nathaniel Hartman, 43, of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for the illegal possession of multiple firearms. The sentence, announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey, follows Hartman’s conviction as a prohibited person due to prior felony firearms and drug offenses, as well as a previous domestic battery conviction.
Discovery of Weapons During Domestic Incident
Law enforcement officers first encountered Hartman while responding to a domestic violence call at a home in Grant County. During that intervention, authorities discovered Hartman in possession of a rifle. A subsequent search of his residence resulted in the seizure of two additional rifles, a shotgun, and a pistol. Because of his criminal history, federal law prohibits Hartman from owning or possessing any firearms.
Prosecution Under Operation Take Back America
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner on behalf of the government. According to the Department of Justice, this prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America, a national initiative focused on targeting transnational criminal organizations and addressing violent crime in local communities. Spearheading the inquiry were the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided over the sentencing in Elkins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Hartman prohibited from owning firearms?
Hartman was legally barred from possessing firearms due to his criminal record, which includes prior felony convictions for firearms and drug-related offenses, as well as a prior conviction for domestic battery.
Which agencies participated in the investigation?
Authorities from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives joined forces with the West Virginia State Police and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office to carry out the inquiry.
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