A Hampton man will spend nearly four years in federal prison after being caught with a loaded handgun while already wanted by police.
Prosecutors say Tre’Vonte Jermel Hunter, 27, was sentenced in Newport News to three years and 10 months for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon — something he is legally barred from doing.
The case goes back to Aug. 8, 2024. According to court records, officers were watching a residence when they saw Hunter walk out carrying a camouflage backpack and get into a vehicle. At the time, he had an outstanding arrest warrant.
When officers stopped the vehicle, Hunter ran.
Police chased him down and took him into custody. Inside the backpack, investigators found a handgun loaded with a 30-round extended magazine. They also recovered a second magazine holding 17 rounds.
Hunter’s criminal record played a key role in the case. Court documents list prior convictions including evading police, hit and run, reckless driving, forgery, failure to appear, and multiple driving-related offenses. He also had previous convictions tied to firearms.
Because of those prior felonies, federal law prohibits him from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
This case is part of a broader push by federal and local authorities to target repeat offenders with gun-related charges — particularly those who continue to carry weapons despite prior convictions.