Cabot, Arkansas – A multi-convicted felon from Cabot, George Tavis Marino II, has been sentenced to 200 months (approximately 16 years and 8 months) in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, Jonathan D. Ross, announced the sentencing, which took place on November 13, 2024. United States District Judge James M. Moody Jr. also ordered Marino to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term.
Traffic Stop Leads to Firearm Discovery
The case against Marino began on May 13, 2022, during a routine traffic stop in Jacksonville. Around 9:30 p.m., an Arkansas State Police trooper stopped a silver Mazda on John Hardin Drive for displaying white lights near its license plate, which is illegal. As the trooper approached the vehicle, he observed Marino, the front-seat passenger, reaching under his seat.
The trooper instructed Marino to keep his hands visible and not to move toward the floorboard. Although Marino initially complied by raising his hands through the window, his behavior soon became erratic. When asked to exit the vehicle, Marino again reached under his seat, prompting the trooper to intervene. Marino denied having a weapon but became increasingly uncooperative, at one point throwing a can of Sprite at the officer before fleeing the scene.
Arrest and Evidence Collection
After a brief chase, Marino was located in a Walmart parking lot in Jacksonville and taken into custody. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a Hi-Point C9 9mm pistol under the passenger seat, loaded with five rounds. Given Marino’s extensive criminal record, possessing a firearm was a federal offense with severe penalties.
A Long History of Criminal Activity
Marino’s criminal history played a significant role in the case. Classified as an armed career criminal offender, Marino has 21 prior felony convictions. These include charges for first-degree terroristic threatening, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, second-degree battery, felony fleeing, and possession of narcotics with intent to distribute. Marino also has two prior convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Due to his status as a career offender, Marino faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The Sentence Reflects the Severity of the Crime
In handing down the 200-month sentence, Judge Moody emphasized Marino’s violent history and repeated offenses. Under federal law, there is no parole, ensuring Marino will serve the majority of his sentence. The prosecution, led by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary, demonstrated Marino’s persistent disregard for the law and the danger his actions posed to the community.
Law Enforcement’s Role in Securing Justice
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation that led to Marino’s arrest and prosecution. U.S. Attorney Ross commended their work, emphasizing the importance of holding repeat offenders accountable to protect public safety.
This case underscores the federal government’s commitment to addressing violent crime and ensuring that dangerous individuals are removed from communities. Marino’s sentencing sends a strong message about the consequences of repeated criminal behavior.
