Tampa Man Faces Life in Prison After Electric Bike Crash Reveals Gun and Drugs

Shannon Pernell Brown convicted on federal charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and intent to distribute marijuana

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:04pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A federal jury in Tampa has convicted 40-year-old Shannon Pernell Brown on charges of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and intent to distribute marijuana. The charges stem from a 2024 incident where Brown, who was riding an electric bicycle, fled from police and crashed, leading to the discovery of over a pound of marijuana and a loaded Glock handgun in his possession.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with repeat offenders and the need for stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting felons from possessing firearms. It also underscores the potential dangers posed by individuals who choose to flee from police, putting both officers and the public at risk.

The details

On August 31, 2024, Tampa Police Department officers attempted to pull Brown over for a traffic violation while he was riding an electric bicycle. Brown tried to flee the scene, leading to a chase that ended when he lost control of the bike and crashed. Upon detaining him, officers searched Brown's belongings and found over a pound of marijuana divided into multiple packages, a digital scale, and a loaded Glock handgun. Brown has a criminal record that includes multiple past felony offenses, including drug trafficking and possession charges.

  • On August 31, 2024, Tampa Police Department officers attempted to pull Brown over for a traffic violation.
  • The chase ended shortly after when Brown lost control of the bike and crashed.
  • A federal jury in Tampa has convicted Brown on the charges.
  • A sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for September 3, 2026.

The players

Shannon Pernell Brown

A 40-year-old Tampa resident who was convicted on federal charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and intent to distribute marijuana.

Tampa Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that initiated the traffic stop and pursuit that led to Brown's arrest.

U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe

The federal prosecutor who announced the conviction of Brown on the charges.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Federal law strictly prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition.”

— U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe (tampafp.com)

What’s next

A sentencing hearing for Shannon Pernell Brown is currently scheduled for September 3, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with repeat offenders and the need for stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting felons from possessing firearms. It also underscores the potential dangers posed by individuals who choose to flee from police, putting both officers and the public at risk.