Minneapolis Felon Convicted of Illegal Firearms Charges

Clenest Demon Wells, Jr., a Minneapolis resident with prior felony convictions, was found guilty by a federal jury of multiple counts including illegal firearm possession and unlawful possession of a machinegun. Wells, identified as an alleged gang member, was repeatedly caught with firearms in incidents dating from 2020 through 2023, despite being legally barred from owning guns. Notably, he was found carrying a Glock 17 modified with an auto-sear, enabling it to function as a fully automatic weapon, which authorities emphasized posed severe risks to public safety. The conviction followed a broader law enforcement crackdown on Minneapolis street gangs, in which Wells was one of 14 alleged gang members indicted on federal charges. Officials highlighted the ongoing efforts to curb gun violence and hold violent offenders accountable, underscoring the significance of the case for community safety. Wells’ sentencing has not yet been scheduled.