WASHINGTON — A Capitol Heights, Maryland, man with a lengthy firearms history has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison after authorities said he illegally possessed a handgun just days after being released to a halfway house.
Dion Zellars, 37, was sentenced Jan. 13, 2026, in U.S. District Court after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Reggie B. Walton also ordered Zellars to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Court records show Zellars, who has five firearms convictions, was arrested March 20, 2025, about a week after being released from custody and while under supervision for two separate gun-related cases.
According to prosecutors, Metropolitan Police officers were patrolling the 4200 block of Southern Avenue SE when they noticed a group gathered on the sidewalk. Zellars drew attention when he attempted to conceal himself behind a parked SUV. When additional officers arrived, he fled on foot while holding his waistband.
During the chase, officers said Zellars raised a black handgun as they ordered him to drop it. He continued running through yards and over a fence before discarding the weapon and stumbling. Officers apprehended him shortly afterward.
Police recovered multiple cell phones and a Glock 29 10mm pistol equipped with a laser, loaded with one round in the chamber and a magazine containing 14 additional rounds. Zellars initially provided officers with a false name but matched his real date of birth.
Investigators later reviewed Zellars’ phone with his consent and found photos, videos, and text messages from earlier that day showing the same firearm. In one message exchange, Zellars sent images of the gun to an acquaintance, who cautioned him against handling a weapon so soon after serving a lengthy prison sentence.
Federal authorities said Zellars had been released to a halfway house on March 12, 2025, roughly one week before the incident.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael L. Barclay prosecuted the case.
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They should totally release him from custody again. It’s only been six firearms convictions now, he’ll surly not go for seven.
Obviously a slow learner. Multiple arrest on gun charges. Pretty sure he will be packing again shortly after his release. Keep him incarcerated to protect the citizens.