Hampton Felon Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Possessing a Firearm While Still on Probation (DOJ)

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - A Hampton man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, on May 21, 2025, the Hampton Police Division (HPD) and Virginia State Police (VSP) attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Mouctar Balde, 25, pursuant to a search warrant. Balde fled at high speed, running several red lights and driving into oncoming traffic. Balde ultimately struck a curb, which disabled his vehicle, and fled on foot. During the foot pursuit, Balde discarded a firearm immediately before he was apprehended.

HPD promptly recovered the firearm, which had been stolen from the purchaser and was loaded with 16 rounds of ammunition, including one round in the chamber.

Balde previously was convicted of larceny, reckless handling of a firearm, obstruction, evading and eluding, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Balde was on probation for the marijuana conviction when he was arrested on May 21, 2025. As a previously convicted felon, Balde cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, HPD, and VSP investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alyson C. Yates prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District CourtLinks to other government and non-government sites will typically appear with the "external link" icon to indicate that you are leaving the Department of Justice website when you click the link. for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACERLinks to other government and non-government sites will typically appear with the "external link" icon to indicate that you are leaving the Department of Justice website when you click the link. by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-70.