Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 24-year-old David A. Douglas of Buffalo was sentenced yesterday afternoon before State Supreme Court Justice Debra Givens to 15 years in prison followed 5 years of post-release supervision.  

On July 4, 2021, at approximately 12:35 a.m., the defendant fired multiple shots from an illegal gun outside of a restaurant on Ellicott Street in the City of Buffalo. Three people were injured by gunfire. The victims were taken to the hospital in civilian vehicles where they were treated for minor injuries.

The defendant was located by Buffalo Police officers on July 16, 2021. He was found in possession of a loaded, illegal handgun at the time of his arrest.

Douglas pleaded guilty to one count of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree (Class “B” violent felony) and one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class “C” violent felony) on November 16, 2022.

DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department Gun Violence Unit for their work in this investigation.  

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Frank A. Strano of the Major Crimes Unit, Assistant District Attorney Rebecca L. Schnirel of the Homicide Unit and Chief John P. Gerken, Jr. of the Narcotics/Intelligence Unit.