Anthony G. Tillman
A Chattanooga man with a felony conviction from 2005 has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after being caught firing a gun at a shooting range.
Anthony G. Tillman, who earlier pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, appeared before Judge Travis McDonough.
His sentencing range was 37-46 months, but the judge said he saw some redeeming features in Tillman, who has reunited with the mother of his son.
Defense attorney Erin Rust said the defendant was shooting the gun in a safe, controlled environment, but Judge McDonough said, "It's amazing to me that you thought this was an okay idea."
Judge McDonough said Tillman had carried out an armed robbery on Chestnut Street when he was 18 and later picked up other charges while getting his parole revoked and evading arrest.
However, he said, "I see somebody who has every ability to do a whole lot better than you have been doing."
The court was told that Tillman has been taking an active role in his children's lives and working two jobs. He has been out on bond after picking up the federal charge.
Prosecutor Kyle Wilson recommended a 37-month sentence.
Jakobi Johnson, who was with Tillman at the gun shop and firing range, got 40 months.
Prosecutors said the arrests came on Feb. 15, 2018, after a Bradley County detective was notified by the gun store that the pair had given incorrect information when signing the log. Store employees had learned that Tillman is a convicted felon.
Police afterward stopped their car after they finished shooting at the range. A handgun and rifle were in the car. Tillman said the guns belonged to his sister.