Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Illegal Machinegun Possession
A 20-year-old was handed a 71-month prison term for illegal possession of a modified handgun during a carjacking.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Crime — General
Lazerrick Alante Stewart received a 71-month prison sentence on October 6, 2026, after pleading guilty to illegal machinegun possession. He used a Glock handgun with a conversion device to rob a victim of their vehicle in 2025.
Why it matters
The sentencing follows the criminal use of a device that converts a standard handgun into a machinegun, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb the prevalence of illegal modifications in violent street crime.
Lazerrick Alante Stewart received a 71-month prison sentence for illegal machinegun possession following his February 2026 guilty plea. The case concludes the prosecution regarding the robbery and vehicle theft incident.
The players
Lazerrick Alante Stewart
He is a 20-year-old defendant who pleaded guilty to federal charges involving the possession of a machinegun.
The details
Stewart pointed a Glock Model 19X 9mm handgun equipped with a conversion device at a victim to seize their belongings. He returned to the Brooklyn Park crime scene 40 minutes after the initial incident to drive away with the victim's vehicle, which was later found less than a mile away.
Timeline
July 23, 2025: A robbery and vehicle theft occurred in Brooklyn Park.
February 19, 2026: Lazerrick Alante Stewart pleaded guilty to the charges.
October 6, 2026: Stewart was sentenced to 71 months in prison.
Legal Context
This prosecution reflects a broader trend of federal crackdowns on the proliferation of illegal auto-sear devices that turn semi-automatic pistols into automatic weapons. Such cases are part of an effort to align sentencing with the dangers posed by modified high-capacity firearms.
The recovery of the stolen vehicle less than a mile from the crime scene emphasizes the proximity of the incident to local residents. The sentencing serves as a procedural step in clearing the case from the Brooklyn Park community.
The takeaway
Illegal conversion devices significantly alter the legal penalties associated with handgun possession. Residents should report any suspicious activity involving firearm modifications to local law enforcement to assist in public safety efforts.
Further reading
For more information on regional legal proceedings, visit the Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The United States Department of Justice.
