South Carolina Group Sentenced in New Jersey for Gun Trafficking Conspiracy

Individuals Involved in Interstate Firearms Smuggling Receive Varied Sentences

Morristown, NJ — Six South Carolina residents have been sentenced for their involvement in a gun trafficking operation that illegally transported firearms into New Jersey. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the culmination of the case on July 23, 2024, with the final sentencing taking place in Newark federal court by U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz.

Kendell McFadden, 31, of Florence, South Carolina, received a 48-month prison sentence for orchestrating the scheme. His role involved coordinating straw purchases of firearms in South Carolina, which were then illegally transported to Paterson, New Jersey, and other locations for resale. Despite being a previously convicted felon and legally barred from possessing firearms, McFadden actively participated in the operations.

His conspirators received varied sentences based on their involvement. Laronmir McFadden, 30, also from Florence and a convicted felon, was sentenced to 49 months in prison after admitting to unlawfully possessing a firearm. Savon Harrison, 27, received a 30-month prison term; Dontavian Jones, 26, was sentenced to 22 months; Michael Gamble, 33, received a 14-month sentence; and Donjanea McClary was sentenced to two years of probation.

The conspiracy, which spanned from August 2019 to September 2021, was brought to a halt when law enforcement intercepted the group's vehicle en route to New Jersey on September 26, 2021. Officers recovered nine handguns from the vehicle, effectively ending the illicit operation.

In addition to prison terms, Kendell McFadden was sentenced to three years of supervised release and was fined $1,000. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by federal and state law enforcement agencies to combat illegal firearm trafficking and underscores the legal consequences of such criminal activities.