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Man sentenced to 15 years for kidnapping girlfriend, police chase in Lansing
Maurice Ray, Jr. faces maximum sentence for firearm possession and abduction
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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A Grand Rapids man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm and kidnapping his girlfriend. The case started in April 2025 when the woman called 911 while being abducted, leading to a high-speed chase through Lansing and a malfunctioning gun incident.
Why it matters
This case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of federal prosecution for violent crimes. The maximum sentence imposed reflects the severity of the offender's actions and the need to protect public safety.
The details
Maurice Ray, Jr. threw his girlfriend from a moving car, dragging her on her knees. When a neighbor tried to help, Ray returned with a loaded gun drawn and pulled the trigger, but the gun misfired. He then shoved his girlfriend back into the vehicle and led police on a three-mile chase through Lansing, exceeding 90 mph. Officers later found the loaded nine-millimeter pistol used in the incident.
- In April 2025, the woman called 911 while being abducted.
- The high-speed chase through Lansing occurred shortly after the abduction.
The players
Maurice Ray, Jr.
A Grand Rapids man who was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm and kidnapping his girlfriend.
James Deir
Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Detroit Field Division.
Paul Maloney
The federal judge who imposed the maximum sentence on Maurice Ray, Jr.
Timothy VerHey
The U.S. Attorney who prosecuted the case.
Nils Kessler
The Assistant United States Attorney who prosecuted the case.
Olivia Ghiselli
The Assistant United States Attorney who prosecuted the case.
What they’re saying
“Maurice Ray, Jr. is an ATF poster child of an individual 100 percent deserving of federal prosecution.”
— James Deir, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Detroit Field Division
“Anyone who would try to murder a woman just because she was trying to be a good Samaritan deserves to go to prison.”
— Timothy VerHey, U.S. Attorney
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Maurice Ray, Jr. out on bail pending his appeal.
The takeaway
This case highlights the need for strong federal prosecution of violent crimes, especially those involving domestic violence and the use of firearms. The maximum sentence imposed reflects the gravity of the offender's actions and the commitment to protecting public safety.
