A Savannah man was convicted in federal court for illegally possessing a firearm after a February 2024 incident. Benjamin Michael Greene, 39, was found guilty by a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia, according to Margaret E. Heap, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
During the trial, evidence showed that on February 12, 2024, Greene took a vehicle while its owner was inflating tires on Augusta Avenue. Police responded quickly and pursued Greene as he drove away. The chase ended when Greene crashed into a telephone pole and then fled on foot. A K-9 officer from the Savannah Police Department apprehended him, and officers had to wrestle a firearm from his hands. Authorities also found another firearm and controlled substances at the scene. Due to prior felony convictions in Chatham County Superior Court, Greene was not allowed to possess firearms.
“Our commitment to removing firearms from the hands of convicted felons is unwavering. I would like to especially recognize K-9 Zulu, whose work directly led to the safe recovery of this firearm,” said Margaret E. Heap, U.S. Attorney.
“The successful outcome of this case underscores the vital partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Together, we are making significant strides in combating gun violence and ensuring that our communities remain safe,” said ATF RAC Robert Davis.
The investigation was conducted under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at reducing violent crime through cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
The Savannah Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Prosecution was handled by Special Assistant United States Attorney Makeia R. Jonese and Assistant United States Attorney Darron J. Hubbard.
For further information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.
