A man set for trial on the charge he was a convicted felon in possession of a firearm pleaded guilty to the crime Monday, November 14, 2022, just as the jury chosen to determine his fate was about to be seated.
Shreveporter Darnell Lamarr Alston, 37, was immediately sentenced to 15 years is prison by Caddo Parish District Judge John D. Mosely Jr. Alston faced at least five and up to 20 years in prison without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence upon conviction and a fine of at least $1,000 and up to $5,000.
In August 2021, officers were called out to the Autumn Woods apartments due to a domestic assault and battery in progress. Upon arrival, officers were advised by the victim that Alston left the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Officers were given permission to search the apartment to ensure that Alston was gone and found him hiding in a closet. After a pat-down search, officers discovered a loaded Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine. The firearm was loaded with 16 rounds.
Alston was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Mekisha Smith Creal and Cheyenne Wilson. He was defended by Casey Simpson and Harry Johnson.