Minneapolis Man Faces Federal Charges for Firearm Possession Amid Burnsville Homicide Investigation
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – Jiwayne Lavelle Chatman, a 38-year-old Minneapolis resident, is now facing federal charges after being apprehended with a firearm and ammunition despite a prior felony conviction. Though he has not been directly charged in connection with a Burnsville homicide, Chatman’s arrest stems from the ongoing investigation related to the incident.
Chatman was detained on Fremont Avenue in Minneapolis following a KOPS alert issued by the Minneapolis Police Department and the Violent Offender Task Force. Upon his arrest, officers allegedly discovered four .380 caliber bullets on his person, as well as suspected cocaine hidden in his sock. A subsequent search of the vehicle he was in led to the recovery of a loaded Ruger .380 caliber handgun with an obliterated serial number.
According to court documents, following a Mirandized statement, Chatman admitted to owning the firearm and carrying it for protection. Due to his criminal history, including convictions for aggravated robbery, terroristic threats, and violation of a no-contact order, he is legally prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The initial state charges in this case were recently dismissed due to "judicial economy," as Chatman has been federally indicted and remains in federal custody. The federal indictment includes charges of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Felon in Possession of Ammunition, as he allegedly violated federal law by possessing both the loaded Ruger handgun and .380 caliber ammunition.
With his criminal record including multiple felonies across several counties, Chatman’s case has drawn heightened attention due to the proximity to the Burnsville homicide investigation. While another suspect is facing charges in direct connection with the homicide, authorities continue to investigate any further links or developments in the case [Burnsville Murder].
Chatman remains in custody at Sherburne County Jail while the federal prosecution case is ongoing.
This article provides an overview of the allegations against JiWayne Chatman, detailing the charges, evidence, and potential legal outcomes. The community is reminded that charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Further updates on this case will depend on the progress of the legal proceedings.
Provided by Sherburne County Sheriff.
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