Lawton, OK – A 20-year-old Lawton man, Jeremiah Alexander “Lil Shoota” Dearing, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on multiple charges related to a December 2023 shooting incident that left an 8-year-old injured. The charges were filed Tuesday in the U.S. Western District Court.
Dearing, who is already facing allegations in Comanche County for his involvement in the shooting, has been charged with being a drug user in possession of firearms and unlawful possession of a machine gun. According to court records, the indictment stems from a series of events that unfolded on December 10, when Dearing allegedly hid the firearm used in the shooting of the child. Additionally, authorities claim Dearing exposed an 8-month-old child to an environment containing accessible firearms and illegal drugs.
The federal charges carry significant penalties. If convicted, Dearing faces up to 15 years in prison on the drug user in possession of a firearm charge. The charge of unlawful possession of a machine gun could result in an additional 10 years in prison.
The shooting incident, which drew widespread attention, involved an 8-year-old who was struck by a bullet during the exchange. The young victim was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
Dearing’s indictment marks a continuation of his legal troubles, and he is expected to face further proceedings in federal court. The case has raised concerns about the accessibility of firearms and the presence of illegal substances in homes with young children.
As the case moves forward, the community remains on edge, reflecting the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in tackling gun violence and drug-related offenses.
