News Summary
A Newport News man, Jimmy Lee Scott, has been sentenced to over eight years in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms. His conviction stems from a shooting incident where he fired at multiple vehicles in a residential area. Scott had an extensive criminal record, including prior felonies that prohibited him from firearm possession. This case underscores the serious legal consequences associated with illegal firearm ownership, particularly for those with felony convictions. The Newport News Police continue to address gun violence in the community.
Newport News – A Newport News man has been sentenced to eight years and one month in federal prison for firearms possession following a neighborhood shooting incident. The sentencing for 33-year-old Jimmy Lee Scott took place on Thursday, August 30, 2025, highlighting the seriousness of his crimes and his history of previous convictions.
Scott was convicted on two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charges stem from an incident on November 5, 2023, when Scott was reported for firing a weapon in a residential area. Law enforcement authorities arrived to find Scott allegedly shooting at multiple vehicles, prompting immediate concerns for public safety.
Upon arrival at the scene, Newport News police found Scott actively using a handgun, damaging several parked cars in the vicinity. After noticing police presence, Scott fled the scene but was apprehended shortly thereafter in a nearby backyard following a brief pursuit. Investigators subsequently connected Scott to the crime scene, where they recovered 20 shell casings that matched a firearm discovered during a search of a residence linked to him.
The search of Scott’s residence revealed the presence of six firearms, among which was a revolver reported stolen. The discovery of this weapon, along with the considerable evidence collected, underscored Scott’s illegal possession of firearms as a convicted felon.
Scott’s criminal record is extensive, featuring multiple convictions for serious offenses including drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, carrying a concealed weapon, trespassing, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Due to his felony status, Scott was prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition, making his actions during the shooting even more egregious in the eyes of the law.
The exact location of Scott’s imprisonment has not been disclosed, but the case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences associated with firearm possession among those with felony convictions. This incident also raises concerns over public safety in Newport News and the accessibility of firearms to individuals who are legally barred from possessing them.
Following Scott’s conviction and sentencing, the Newport News Police Department remains vigilant in addressing gun violence in the community. Authorities encourage residents to report any suspicious activities related to firearms to help maintain safety in neighborhoods. For further updates regarding police activities or incidents within Newport News, community members can follow the department’s official Facebook page.
In summary, Jimmy Lee Scott’s sentencing emphasizes a commitment to enforcing laws against illegal firearm possession, particularly among violent offenders. As the community reflects on this incident, the Newport News Police Department continues to strive for a safer environment for all residents.
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Additional Resources
- WAVY: Newport News man sentenced to 8 years for illegal firearms possession
- 13 News Now: Newport News man sentenced to more than 8 years for 2023 shooting
- WTKR: Man arrested in connection with shooting that left Newport News police vehicle damaged
- Pilot Online: Newport News Council to consider banning guns from government buildings
- MSN: Newport News felon sentenced to 4 years in prison for possessing a firearm
- Wikipedia: Newport News, Virginia
- Google Search: Gun violence Virginia
- Google Scholar: Illegal firearm possession
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firearm
- Google News: Newport News crime
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
