Little Rock Man Receives 15-Year Federal Prison Sentence
A federal judge sentenced Andre Lavon Harris to 180 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Drug Crime
United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky sentenced 47-year-old Andre Lavon Harris to 15 years in federal prison. Harris pleaded guilty to the charge following a traffic stop where agents found drugs and a firearm.
Why it matters
The sentence addresses the illegal possession of a firearm by an individual previously convicted of first-degree murder. It follows a law enforcement operation targeting drug distribution in Pulaski and Saline counties.
Andre Lavon Harris received a 180-month federal prison sentence followed by three years of supervised release. This follows his guilty plea for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The players
Andre Lavon Harris
He is a 47-year-old individual who was previously convicted of first-degree murder.
Lee P. Rudofsky
He serves as a United States District Judge presiding over the case in federal court.
The details
Agents stopped Harris on November 15, 2023, discovering a loaded 9mm semi-automatic firearm alongside crack cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine pills. Harris was previously convicted of first-degree murder in 1999.
Timeline
July 23, 1999: Harris was convicted of first-degree murder.
September 5, 2023: DEA agents learned of Harris's drug distribution activities.
November 15, 2023: Agents conducted a traffic stop and search of Harris.
July 6, 2026: Harris pleaded guilty to the federal firearm possession charge.
October 21, 2026: A federal judge sentenced Harris to prison.
Legal Context
This case reflects the federal government's ongoing effort to restrict firearm access among individuals with violent criminal histories. It aligns with federal sentencing standards designed to address repeat recidivism among high-risk offenders.
The removal of an individual carrying illegal drugs and firearms from the streets of Little Rock improves community safety. Residents in Pulaski and Saline counties may see continued law enforcement focus on curbing drug distribution activities.
The takeaway
Repeat offenders face significant federal consequences for illegal firearm possession. Law enforcement agencies continue to prioritize identifying and intercepting illicit narcotics distribution in the local area.
Further reading
Learn more about local enforcement efforts on the Little Rock drug-crime page.
