KC Reporter

A man from Jefferson City, Missouri, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for possessing a firearm and ammunition unlawfully. Latrell Dashon Batts, 27, faces charges in connection to the possession incident, which took place on March 10, 2025, involving a Smith & Wesson pistol and ammunition.

Federal law prohibits individuals convicted of a felony from owning firearms or ammunition. Batts has previous felony convictions for second-degree assault and accessory forcible stealing.

It is important to note that the indictment consists of accusations, not evidence of guilt, which will need to be substantiated before a federal trial jury. The jury will determine Batts' guilt or innocence.

If found guilty, Batts could face a maximum sentence of up to fifteen years in federal prison. The sentencing will follow the advisory guidelines and other statutory elements, to be decided by the court. A date for a sentencing hearing will be set once the United States Probation Office completes a presentence investigation.

The case is prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks, and was investigated by the Jefferson City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a collaborative initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun-related violence. PSN emphasizes building trust within communities, endorsing preventive organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and evaluating outcomes.