Birmingham, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Frederick Leonard Temple Jr., a Birmingham resident, has been sentenced to 36 years in federal prison after being convicted of serious charges, including possession of a machine gun and distribution of fentanyl. The case reflects the joint efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in the region. U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona emphasized the importance of addressing illegal activities that threaten community safety.
Birmingham witnessed a significant legal ruling as Frederick Leonard Temple Jr., a 35-year-old resident with the nickname “Cutthroat,” was sentenced to 36 years in federal prison following his conviction on multiple serious charges, including possessing a machine gun and distributing fentanyl. The sentencing took place after his conviction in late February 2025, marking a decisive move in the fight against violent crime and drug trafficking in the region.
U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala oversaw the case, which was highlighted by U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona from the Northern District of Alabama, as well as Jason Stankiewicz, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Nashville Field Division. This ruling serves as a stern warning that violent and criminal activities, particularly those related to drugs and illegal firearms, will be addressed with the utmost seriousness by the judiciary system.
Evidence presented during the trial pointed to Temple’s involvement in distributing fentanyl on at least two occasions. Following these activities, authorities executed a search warrant at his Birmingham residence. The search uncovered an alarming arsenal of 14 firearms, including a machine gun, along with various firearm magazines capable of holding 100 and 50 rounds. Additionally, law enforcement officers confiscated a considerable amount of ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia, including six digital scales.
U.S. Attorney Escalona emphasized the potential threat that Temple posed to community safety, reaffirming that such dangerous illegal activities cannot and will not be tolerated. This case is a product of joint investigative efforts among several law enforcement agencies, including the ATF, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and the Birmingham Police Department, highlighting the importance of collaboration in combatting serious crime.
The prosecution of the case was managed by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristy M. Peoples and Alan Kirk, reflecting the federal commitment to holding offenders accountable for their actions. Stankiewicz also noted that the sentencing reflects the ATF’s dedication to addressing illegal firearm possession and violent crime, aiming to protect communities through collaborative partnerships.
The sentencing of Frederick Leonard Temple Jr. marks an essential step in the battle against drug trafficking and firearm-related violence within Birmingham and underscores the vigilance of law enforcement in tackling these pervasive issues.
Background of the Case
This case sheds light on the broader epidemic of drug trafficking affecting numerous communities across the United States. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has been at the center of the opioid crisis, contributing to rising addiction and overdose rates. The presence of illegal firearms in drug operations further complicates the issue, posing significant risks to public safety.
In recent years, law enforcement agencies have increasingly focused on dismantling drug trafficking networks and curbing the circulation of illegal firearms. Collaborative investigations, like those seen in this case, aim to create a more secure environment for all community members.
Key Details of the Case
- Defendant: Frederick Leonard Temple Jr.
- Age: 35
- Charges: Possession of a machine gun, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl
- Sentence: 36 years in federal prison
- Law enforcement agencies involved: ATF, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Birmingham Police Department
- Prosecutors: Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristy M. Peoples and Alan Kirk
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main charges against Frederick Leonard Temple Jr.?
Frederick Leonard Temple Jr. was charged with possession of a machine gun, distribution of fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
How long is Temple’s prison sentence?
He has been sentenced to 36 years in federal prison.
What evidence was presented during the trial?
Evidence included Temple’s involvement in fentanyl distribution and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and drugs from his residence during a search.
Which law enforcement agencies were involved in the investigation?
The investigation was a collaboration among the ATF, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and the Birmingham Police Department.
Case Summary Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Frederick Leonard Temple Jr. |
| Age | 35 |
| Nickname | Cutthroat |
| Sentence | 36 years in federal prison |
| Main Charges | Machine gun possession, fentanyl distribution, methamphetamine possession |
| Evidence Collected | 14 firearms, large amount of ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine |
| Agencies Involved | ATF, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Birmingham Police Department |
| Prosecutors | Kristy M. Peoples, Alan Kirk |
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Birmingham Man Sentenced to 36 Years in Prison
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- ABC3340: Birmingham Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun Charges
- Google Search: Drug Trafficking in Alabama
- WBRC: Birmingham Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun Charges
- Google Scholar: Drug and Gun Convictions Birmingham
- CBS42: Birmingham Man Convicted on Gun and Drug Charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
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