NASHVILLE - Derrick L. McDowell, 44, of Nashville, Tennessee, was recently sentenced to fifteen years imprisonment as an Armed Career Criminal for his illegal possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, announced United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee. McDowell had previously pled guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon in U.S. District Court. “Violent felons who illegally use firearms to commit more violent crimes are a significant danger to our community,” said United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek. “There is never an excuse for domestic violence much less for brandishing a firearm at an intimate partner. This sentence shows that we will not tolerate it and will hold offenders accountable with serious prison time.” According to court records, on December 4, 2024, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department responded to a domestic violence call at a residence in Nashville. Once there, the officers were informed the McDowell had brandished a firearm while arguing with his girlfriend and her daughter. Officers then located McDowell on a nearby street and noticed a bulge in McDowell’s waistband. When asked about what he had in his waistband, McDowell attempted to flee from law enforcement. Officers quickly apprehended the McDowell. Inside McDowell’s waistband, officers found a Taurus model G3c 9x19mm caliber pistol loaded with a 40-round drum magazine. McDowell admitted he possessed the pistol for protection.
Prior to his arrest on federal charges, McDowell has been convicted of at least four separate felony offenses. McDowell’s prior convictions include Davidson County convictions for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute it, especially aggravated robbery, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. McDowell also has a voluntary manslaughter conviction from Wayne County, Tennessee.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Herbert L. Bunton III prosecuted the case.