Grand Rapids Reporter

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, announced that Shyon Malik Armstrong, 19, from Grand Rapids, has been sentenced to 50 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms.

“At one of life’s most celebratory moments – a high school graduation – Mr. Armstrong created the risk of horrendous harm for these graduates, their families, and school officials,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “I’m so grateful to the Grand Rapids Police Department officers who acted swiftly to protect the community. Every person – no matter who they are or where they live – has a right to live free from the fear of gun violence.”

The incident occurred on May 30, 2024, when the Grand Rapids Police Department responded to information about potential violence at a graduation ceremony at Calvary Church. Earlier that day, police learned that two street gangs were engaged in conflict and threatening violence at the event. Mr. Armstrong attempted to escape but was detained by police who found two loaded firearms in his backpack. One firearm was an AR-style pistol with an extended magazine containing 35 rounds.

The investigation was conducted by the Grand Rapids Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which involves federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement working together with communities to create effective strategies for reducing violent crime.