Loaded Gun and Fentanyl Surface in Alton Federal Case

BENTON — An Alton man with 14 previous felony convictions was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a felon, following a Feb. 21, 2025, traffic stop during which he tried to dispose of a loaded pistol and fentanyl.

Nathan A. Johnson, 41, was charged as an armed career criminal. His previous felony convictions in Madison County state court include aggravated domestic battery, aggravated battery, and domestic battery.

According to court documents, Alton Police initiated a traffic stop on Johnson’s vehicle while it was parked in the driveway of a known drug house. Johnson tried to dispose of a loaded Taurus 9 mm pistol and a bag containing nearly 6 grams of fentanyl. Police discovered that the pistol had been reported stolen.

“Fourteen previous felony convictions with federal charges added to his rap sheet represent a clear and blatant disregard for the law and common decency,” U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said. “Johnson has been a thorn in the Alton community’s side, but thanks to diligent work by officers, he’s headed back to prison.”

The Alton Police Department led the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Trippi prosecuted the case.

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