Federal court imposes 27-month sentence on Rotterdam resident found with illegal shotgun, marking progress under Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative

Rotterdam, New York – In a recent judicial development in Rotterdam, New York, 46-year-old Jesse Taber was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm, marking a significant step in local and federal efforts to curb violent crime. The sentencing was announced by United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

The case against Taber stemmed from an incident on December 26, 2023, when he was found in possession of a 12-gauge Stoeger Coach Gun shotgun within his residence. During the proceedings, Taber admitted to his actions, which were in violation of federal law due to his prior criminal record. Taber has been previously convicted of three felonies in New York, which legally prohibits him from owning or possessing any firearms.

United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino presided over the case, imposing not only a prison term but also a subsequent three-year term of supervised release, which will commence once Taber completes his prison sentence. This decision underscores the justice system’s commitment to stringent consequences for firearms offenses, particularly for individuals with a history of serious crimes.

The investigation into Taber’s unlawful activities was a collaborative effort between the ATF and the Rotterdam Police Department, highlighting the ongoing partnership between local and federal agencies in tackling gun-related crimes. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Belliss led the prosecution, ensuring that the case was brought to a decisive conclusion.

This case is also a part of the broader initiative under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s flagship program aimed at reducing violent crime across the United States. PSN adopts an evidence-based approach, bringing together a variety of stakeholders to address violent crime issues through enforcement, prevention, and reentry strategies. The program specifically targets the most violent offenders, focusing on impactful prosecution and coordinated efforts with community-based programs to achieve sustainable crime reduction.

For more detailed information on Project Safe Neighborhoods and its initiatives, the Department of Justice hosts a comprehensive website accessible to the public, which outlines the program’s strategies and successes in enhancing community safety across the nation.