Lazavion Kern, a 23-year-old resident of Gallatin, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after his conviction on multiple counts of armed robbery and firearms offenses. This decision comes following Kern’s actions during a three-week period in December 2019, in which he robbed four convenience stores located in Gallatin and Portland, Tennessee. During these robberies, he managed to steal thousands of dollars, and in one instance, severely injured a store clerk by pistol-whipping him.
Acting United States Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee announced the sentencing, emphasizing the commitment of his office to prosecute violent criminals and protect law-abiding citizens. He noted that the sentence serves as a warning that violent crimes in the community will lead to accountability and justice.
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The FBI Nashville Field Office’s Special Agent in Charge, Joe Carrico, also highlighted the collaborative effort of law enforcement agencies in addressing and reducing violent crimes in the area. This case involved cooperation between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Gallatin Police Department, the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office, and the Portland Police Department, with additional assistance from the United States Marshals Service.
Kern did not act alone in these crimes. He was assisted by Antonio Jones in each robbery and by Michael Sanchez Fitts in the third incident. Both accomplices have pleaded guilty to felony charges. Fitts was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release on May 22, 2023. Similarly, Jones received the same sentence on October 10, 2024.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph P. Montminy and Taylor J. Phillips.
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