Minneapolis Review

A convicted felon has entered a guilty plea for illegal possession of a firearm, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.

Court documents detail that on March 17, 2023, Samit Mao, aged 43, was involved in an incident at a gas station in St. Paul. Mao attempted unsuccessfully to buy a cash card with reward points and then struck the glass window at the cash register. Following this, he was asked to leave by both a cashier and a security guard. Once outside, Mao and the security guard exchanged gunfire, resulting in Mao sustaining an injury to his left arm. He fled the scene in his car but was apprehended by responding officers nearby. A Springfield model Hellcat 9mm semiautomatic pistol was found under his seat containing eight rounds and one round chambered.

Due to multiple prior felony convictions, federal law prohibits Mao from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Mao's guilty plea occurred yesterday before Judge Michael J. Davis in U.S. District Court for one count of illegal possession of a firearm as a felon. His sentencing will be scheduled for a future date.

The case investigation was carried out by the St. Paul Police Department along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew S. Ebert is responsible for prosecuting the case.