Man faces up to 10 years after firearm conviction in Charleston

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CHARLESTON, Mo., (KBSI) — A Mississippi County jury found Deriechess Moore guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm on Friday, Dec. 5, after deliberating for less than 15 minutes. The trial was held before Judge R. Zac Horack.

Moore, of Charleston, is classified as a prior and persistent felony offender and faces up to 10 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

The conviction stems from a June 2, 2023, incident in which officers with the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office and the Charleston Department of Public Safety responded to reports that Moore had been driving recklessly and pointing a firearm at individuals. During a traffic stop, officers located the firearm within Moore’s reach and determined he was prohibited from possessing a firearm under Missouri law.

Mississippi County Prosecuting Attorney Claire Poley issued a statement following the verdict.

“Holding offenders accountable and keeping firearms out of the hands of felons is a top priority for our office,” Poley said. “Gun violence threatens the safety and stability of our community, and we will continue to take firm action against those who choose to endanger others by unlawfully carrying weapons.”

Poley also thanked those involved in the investigation and prosecution.

“We are grateful to the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office and the Charleston Department of Public Safety for their thorough work in this investigation,” she said. “We also extend our thanks to the jurors and court staff whose service made today’s verdict possible.”

The Mississippi County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office said it remains committed to reducing gun violence through strong prosecution and continued partnership with law enforcement.

Related links: 3 arrested with stolen firearm in Charleston – KBSI FOX23 News Cape Girardeau News | Paducah News