Demetris Octavius Parrish, a 37-year-old resident of Nashville, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the unlawful possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee.
The incident occurred on February 26, 2021, when Parrish entered the R&B Market located at 2600 Clarksville Pike in Nashville. Upon entering, he was recognized by the market’s manager as a regular customer. During a brief conversation, Parrish expressed a desire to exchange some goods. When informed that the market did not sell those goods and could not facilitate the return, Parrish became agitated and threatened the manager, stating he would return to cause harm.
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Approximately 30 minutes after the initial confrontation, Parrish returned to the market armed with a black 9mm pistol. He entered the establishment and pointed the weapon at the manager, who was positioned behind the checkout counter. As the manager attempted to flee to the rear of the market, Parrish discharged multiple shots in his direction before fleeing the scene.
The entire sequence of events, including Parrish’s initial visit, the attempted shooting, and his subsequent escape, was captured on the market’s surveillance cameras. Metro Nashville police officers responded swiftly to the scene and recovered three 9mm caliber cartridge cases from within the market.
Acting United States Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski commented on the case, emphasizing the office’s dedication to safeguarding the community from repeat offenders, particularly those involved with firearms. Parrish had prior convictions for at least six felony offenses, including aggravated assault and aggravated robbery. Jaworski commended the collaborative efforts of prosecutors and law enforcement agencies in ensuring community safety from Parrish’s criminal activities.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in conjunction with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Goldin and Rascoe Dean.
Source: Read Original Release
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