Godson Oghenebrume, a 23-year-old Nigerian national living in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm while admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa. The sentencing was carried out by U.S. Chief Judge Shelly Dick, following Oghenebrume’s guilty plea to the charge. He is also subject to deportation upon completion of his prison term. The case has drawn attention due to Oghenebrume’s background as a former track athlete at Louisiana State University.
U.S. Attorney Kurt Wall announced the sentencing on Tuesday, emphasizing the seriousness of violating federal gun laws, especially for non-citizens. Oghenebrume admitted during his plea that on February 7, 2025, he possessed a Glock model 43X, 9mm pistol while holding an F-1 student visa. Under U.S. law, non-immigrant visa holders are prohibited from possessing firearms, regardless of intent or circumstance.
The incident began when Oghenebrume’s ex-girlfriend, who is also the mother of his infant child, arrived at his apartment with the baby. At the time, Oghenebrume was inside with another woman. He went outside, and an argument erupted between him and his ex-partner. During the confrontation, while the baby was present, Oghenebrume fired a gunshot. He then returned to the apartment, and the argument continued inside before spilling back outside.
As the dispute escalated, Oghenebrume discharged the firearm multiple times as his ex-girlfriend fled. Bullet holes were later found in the walls of the apartment complex. In the chaos, Oghenebrume smashed his ex-girlfriend’s phone and took the baby. The other woman in the apartment, who had been trying to leave, was asked by the mother to help retrieve the child. She agreed and successfully took the baby from Oghenebrume.
When East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputies arrived, Oghenebrume ignored their commands and discarded the firearm into nearby shrubs. He was arrested shortly after. A neighbor confirmed hearing gunshots and reported that his ears were still ringing afterward. During a post-Miranda interview, Oghenebrume told detectives he fired the gun to scare his ex-girlfriend away and make her leave.
The case underscores the strict enforcement of U.S. gun laws for non-citizens and highlights the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into violent incidents. Oghenebrume’s actions have not only led to criminal penalties but also to potential removal from the country. His case serves as a cautionary example for international students and visitors about the legal consequences of firearm possession under non-immigrant status.
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