A Hampton man, Jermain Antonio Bernard, 41, has been sentenced to three years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The sentencing took place in Newport News federal court.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on March 8, 2025, when Newport News Police stopped Bernard’s vehicle for driving at night without headlights. Officers reported smelling alcohol and noted that Bernard had glassy and bloodshot eyes. After calling for backup to conduct a field-sobriety test, police observed a firearm near Bernard.
When informed about the firearm, Bernard fled the scene in his vehicle. He later abandoned the car and attempted to escape on foot but was apprehended by officers while knocking on an apartment door. Police recovered a loaded handgun from his vehicle after the arrest.
At the time of this incident, Bernard had approximately 24 prior convictions, including previous firearms offenses. As a result of these convictions, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division and the Newport News Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Coleman prosecuted it.
“This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).”
Additional information about this case can be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia or through PACER by searching Case No. 4:25-cr-47.
