Christopher Gilliam, a validated member of the Gangster Disciples, has been sentenced to over 13 years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. The sentencing is part of a broader effort to reduce violent crime in the Middle District of Georgia.
Gilliam, 36, of Columbus, Georgia, was sentenced to 162 months (13 years and 6 months) in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Clay Land delivered the sentence on January 28, 2025, after Gilliam pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Federal law mandates no parole, so Gilliam will serve his full sentence behind bars.
A History of Violence
This case is a direct result of the federal Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which aims to target violent offenders and reduce gun crime. Gilliam, who has a criminal history that includes prior convictions for aggravated assault, was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant for aggravated assault when law enforcement tracked him to his girlfriend’s house on July 21, 2023.
Upon arrest, officers discovered a stolen 9mm semiautomatic pistol with a laser and a loaded 15-round magazine in plain view. Since Gilliam was a convicted felon, it is illegal for him to possess a firearm. This discovery was part of the ongoing effort to combat gang-related crime and violence in the region.
Project Safe Neighborhoods: A Key Strategy for Crime Reduction
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) has been an essential tool for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies working together to combat violent crime. This initiative brings together law enforcement partners and communities to target violent offenders and dismantle criminal networks, with a particular focus on gang activity and illegal firearms possession.
“Violent convicted felons caught illegally with firearms in the Middle District of Georgia will find their cases in federal court,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker, emphasizing the continued focus on holding repeat offenders accountable.
ATF Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka added that Project Safe Neighborhoods is not just a program, but a resolute effort to rid communities of violent criminals. “Through strategic enforcement and collaboration, we will ensure that violent offenders, like Gilliam, face justice in federal court,” Kolodka stated.
Law Enforcement’s Unyielding Commitment to Safer Communities
Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman made it clear that law enforcement will continue to target violent offenders and work closely with federal partners to ensure community safety. “If you are bold enough to commit a crime involving a gun coupled with gang involvement, we will be courageous enough to arrest you for your crimes against others,” Countryman remarked.
This case highlights the importance of collaboration between local and federal authorities in maintaining public safety. Law enforcement agencies such as the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) played crucial roles in investigating and arresting Gilliam.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Communities
The successful prosecution of Gilliam is a significant step in making Georgia’s communities safer. The Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative has helped focus law enforcement’s efforts on reducing violent crime, particularly by targeting gang violence and illegal gun possession. It also emphasizes the importance of building trust within communities and supporting local organizations that aim to prevent violence before it starts.
As this case shows, there are real-world consequences for those who commit violent acts involving firearms. Gilliam’s sentence is a reminder that federal law enforcement is taking action to ensure that criminals who pose a serious threat to public safety will be held accountable.
