Man in prison in Kearney slaying sentenced on federal charge

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — A Kearney man who was already behind bars in connection with a homicide is facing more prison time.

Joseph Garcia, 21, was sentenced Tuesday for being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition.

He will spend four years in federal prison, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

SEE ALSO: KPD: Man wanted in connection to fatal shooting in Kearney

In February 2022, Garcia was pulled over in Buffalo County.

He had methamphetamine in his pocket and a digital scale and glass pipes in the center console, authorities said.

Police also found 9 mm ammo in the vehicle.

As a convicted felon and a drug user, Garcia was banned from possessing guns or ammunition.

SEE ALSO: Kearney Police are looking for another suspect connected to a fatal shooting in January

Days before the traffic stop, Garcia was charged in a Kearney robbery that turned deadly.

He was convicted last year of accessory to homicide and possession of meth.

Romeo Chambers, 27, is awaiting trial in that case on a charge of second-degree murder.

SEE ALSO: Two teens connected to deadly Kearney shooting arrested

Garcia is expected to be released from state prison in 2028, when he will begin his federal sentence.

There is no parole in the federal system. After prison, he will be on supervised release for three years.