Rocky Mount Man Who Opened Fire on Police Officers Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison

WILMINGTON, N.C. - A Rocky Mount man was sentenced today to the statutory maximum of 180 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and for shooting at Rocky Mount Police Department (RMPD) officers who were attempting to apprehend him. On November 8, 2023, Antonio Maurice Wilkins, Sr., pled guilty to the charge.

"Law enforcement officers are being shot in the line of duty far too often. We won't stand by and watch it happen. As federal prosecutors, we're partnering with local DA's to put shooters on a fast track to federal prison, often even while state charges are still pending," said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. "This defendant fled law enforcement and tried to shoot an officer, but his bullet miraculously struck the officer's service weapon. Too many officers are not so lucky. Prioritizing cases like these is the least we can do for those who risk their lives every day."

"This case reminds us of the dangers our officers are faced with and how they place their lives on the line to serve our community and keep our streets safe," said Rocky Mount Police Chief Hassell. "The quick actions of our officers allowed them to take a violent individual off our streets. We are committed to our partnerships with our federal partners. Our combined efforts will ensure we continue to prosecute those who commit crime."

"This is a prime example of the benefits of our partnership with the U.S. Attorney's office and law enforcement. We look forward to continuing to work with these agencies as we all strive to make our communities safer," said District Attorney Jeff Marsigli.

According to court documents and other information presented in court, Antonio Wilkins, Sr., age 48, a previously convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a firearm on February 9, 2023. On that date, RMPD received a report of a stolen car and were informed that Wilkins was the driver. They were also provided with the location of the vehicle. Two officers went to that location and attempted to take him into custody. When encountered, Wilkins resisted arrest and fled on foot through a parking lot. As an officer caught up to him, Wilkins pulled out a handgun and fired a shot at the officer, striking his service weapon and injuring the officer's hip. Wilkins continued to fire as the officer retreated towards a dumpster. Meanwhile, another RMPD officer fired two shots at Wilkins, hitting him twice in the upper thigh and incapacitating him. Wilkins still faces state charges related to the incident.

Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. RMPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:23-CR-26-M-RN.