Gangster Disciple Convicted of Gun Charge

A Knox County gang member was convicted today of firearm and evading arrest charges after being prosecuted by members of DA Charme Allen’s Career Gang Unit. Julian Isiah Jackson, 26, was convicted by a jury of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Violent Felon and Evading Arrest. Jackson was also found to be a member for the Gangster Disciple criminal street gang. Judge Scott Green revoked Jackson’s bond and ordered him into custody.

At trial, Assistant District Attorney TaKisha Fitzgerald explained to the jury that on Friday, June 13, 2014, Knoxville Police Department officers were investigating a drug complaint at a house on Linden Avenue. While officers were at the residence, Jackson came from the back of the residence holding what appeared to be a handgun. When officers told Jackson to show them his hands, he fled on foot. Officers found Jackson sitting on the porch of 3000 Linden Avenue. In the trash can immediately next to Jackson, officers recovered a 9mm handgun. It is illegal for Jackson to possess a firearm because he was convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter in 2007. Knox County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Tom Walker also explained that Jackson is a member of the Gangster Disciples street gang.

“Gang members caught with guns can expect to receive special attention and little mercy from my Office, especially when those gang members have violent criminal histories,” said DA Allen. Because of the gang enhancement, Jackson is facing a Class B felony, which carries a punishment from eight to twelve years.

If you have any questions, please contact Sean McDermott at 865-215-2515 or Sean.McDermott@knoxcounty.org. For more information about the District Attorney’s Office, visit our website at dag.knoxcountytn.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.