Baltimore Man Receives 18-Month Sentence for Weapon Possession Within Federal Prison

According to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Davon Nelson, a 41-year-old resident of Baltimore, Maryland, has been sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment. The sentence was handed down by Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann for the offense of possessing a weapon while incarcerated.

The incident leading to Nelson’s sentencing occurred on October 8, 2024. At the time, Nelson was an inmate at the Allenwood Federal Correctional Institution. During an inspection, authorities discovered that Nelson was in possession of an inmate-manufactured weapon. This item, fashioned from sharpened steel, measured 4 ½ inches in length.

The investigation into this case was a collaborative effort between the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger was responsible for prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

This sentencing highlights the ongoing efforts by correctional facilities to maintain security and prevent the introduction and possession of contraband, particularly weapons, within prison environments. The presence of such items poses a significant risk to the safety of both inmates and correctional staff. The Federal Bureau of Prisons has protocols in place to detect and confiscate contraband, and cooperation with federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI is crucial in addressing these security concerns. The case of Davon Nelson underscores the consequences for individuals found to be in possession of weapons while serving time in federal correctional institutions.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Pennsylvania

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