Duluth Armed Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing Firearms, Ammunition, and Narcotics

A federal indictment unsealed earlier today in the District of Minnesota charges a 31–yearold Duluth man with possessing firearms and ammunition as well as possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and narcotics. Jeremiah Robert Hedberg was indicted on one count of felon in possesion of a firearm, one count of felon in possession of ammunition, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute Opana, a powerful pain killer. The indictment, which was filed on March 8, 2011, was unsealed following Hedberg’s initial appearance in federal court.

The indictment alleges that on December 21, 2010, Hedberg, also known as Jeremiah Curry, possessed a .40 caliber, semi–automatic pistol and a .38 caliber, semi–automatic pistol. In addition, Hedberg possessed 122 rounds of .380 caliber ammunition and eight rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. The indictment also alleges that on December 20, 2010, Hedberg possessed with intent to distribute both methamphetamine and Opana tablets, which contain the narcotic oxymorphone. The weapons, ammunition, and controlled substances were seized during the execution of a state search warrant at Hedberg’s residence and a second residence.

Because he is a felon, Hedberg is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. Hedberg’s previous felony convictions include three in St. Louis County in 2003 (two for second–degree assault and one for being a felon in possession of a firearm), along with a second degree assault conviction in Sherburne County in 1997. Since those offenses were crimes of violence, Hedberg is now subject to the federal armed career criminal statute, which mandates a 15–year minimum prison sentence if convicted of the firearm–possession charge now pending against him. He faces a potential maximum penalty of life. All sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Lake Superior Drug and Gang Task Force, the Duluth Police Department, and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen A. Slaughter.

Note, the case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, an initiative launched by the U.S. Justice Department in 2001 to promote a multi–jurisdictional, comprehensive approach to reducing gun crime in America. PSN provides resources to strengthen law enforcement and crime prevention partnerships that are working to make our streets and communities safer.