Alleged Mobile New Year’s Eve gunman sentenced to 10 years in federal prison

Alleged Mobile New Year’s Eve gunman sentenced to 10 years in federal prison

The alleged gunman who opened fire during New Year’s Eve celebrations in downtown Mobile that killed a man and injured nine people was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison Monday on gun-related charges — the maximum punishment allowed.

U.S. Chief District Judge Jeffery Beaverstock also sentenced Thomas Earl Thomas, Jr. to three years of supervised release after completing the term, according to court records.

Thomas pleaded guilty in April to illegally possessing a machinegun. Thomas possessed and fired a .40-caliber Glock pistol equipped with an extended magazine and an illegal machinegun-conversion device known as a “Glock switch” during New Year’s Eve, according to court documents.

He still faces charges directly related to the deadly shooting, including intentional murder, first-degree assault and shooting a firearm into occupied and unoccupied buildings and vehicles.

Thomas’ sentence was applauded by Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine, who called it “a significant milestone in our pursuit of justice and community safety.”

“The sentencing of Thomas Earl Thomas, Jr. underscores our commitment to maintaining the safety and well-being of our community.  We will continue to work hand-in-hand with our federal, state, and local partners to ensure that individuals who engage in violent criminal activities face the full force of the law,” Prine said in a statement.

“Our commitment remains unwavering in ensuring community safety and justice,” the chief continued. “We express our condolences to the victims and their families and reassure our citizens of our dedication to their security during all future celebrations.”