James E. Wallace, 48, Mexico, pleaded guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Wallace admitted that the firearms and ammunition found at his home on June 27, 2012 during the execution of a search warrant were his.
Wallace appeared before United States District Judge Henry Autrey. The parties agreed that Wallace appears to qualify as an armed career criminal under federal law. Under the armed career criminal statute, Wallace will face a statutory minimum of 15 years imprisonment and a statutory maximum of life. In determining the actual sentences, a Judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.
Sentencing has been set for May 21.
This case was investigated by the Audrain County Sheriff's Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and was prosecuted in cooperation with the Audrain and Montgomery County Prosecutor's offices. Assistant United States Attorney Tom Albus is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney's Office.