COLUMBIA, S.C. — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)), published as received.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a single-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, charging Karlos Damon Gibson, 20, with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to statements and filings in court, on Aug. 5, 2026, law enforcement executed a search warrant at an apartment where Gibson had been staying. They found a.40 caliber handgun and a drum magazine containing 50 rounds of ammo in Gibson’s daughter’s crib. They also found a.45 caliber pistol in the little girl’s closet.  

Gibson has a prior conviction for possession with intent to distribute. His criminal history prohibits Gibson from possessing firearms or ammunition. At the time he possessed these firearms, Gibson was out on bond after being charged with being an accessary after the fact to a felony, specifically a murder. His bond conditions further prohibit him from possessing firearms. 

Gibson faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. Gibson is currently detained pending trial.

This case is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Columbia Police Department, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Timmons is prosecuting the case.  

All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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