News Summary
Charles Harmon Porter, a Savannah resident, has been sentenced to 100 months in prison for shooting his roommate during a domestic dispute. His history as a convicted felon factored into the severity of his punishment, highlighting the issues of gun violence and illegal possession of firearms. Following an extensive investigation by law enforcement, Porter pleaded guilty to charges linking him to the shooting. While he has been sentenced, additional charges related to aggravated assault remain pending, indicating ongoing legal challenges.
Savannah Man Receives 100-Month Sentence for Shooting Roommate
On September 4, 2025, Charles Harmon Porter, a 54-year-old resident of Savannah, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison following his guilty plea to ammunition possession as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Porter to serve three years of supervised release after completing his prison term.
The felonious act occurred on May 29, 2023, when Porter shot his female roommate during a domestic dispute at their home on Alma Street, resulting in severe consequences. This incident has been classified by law enforcement officials as an act of attempted murder.
Background of the Case
Porter’s legal troubles are compounded by his status as a three-time convicted felon. He has prior convictions for terroristic threats, possession of cocaine, and obstruction of law enforcement, making his current charges particularly serious. Following the shooting, Porter attempted to evade the police by fleeing the scene and disposing of the handgun used in the incident to avoid detection.
However, the Savannah Police Department quickly identified Porter and issued a warrant for his arrest. He was taken into custody just hours after the shooting, demonstrating the swift response of law enforcement in this case. During the booking process at the Chatham County Jail, a round of ammunition was discovered in Porter’s pocket. This ammunition had been manufactured outside of Georgia, resulting in federal charges being applied due to the nature of his possession.
Legal Proceedings and Outcomes
Subsequent investigations led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in conjunction with the Savannah Police Department provided key evidence linking the ammunition to the shooting. Porter was indicted earlier this year and, after weighing his options, ultimately pleaded guilty to the charge of possessing ammunition as a convicted felon.
At the sentencing hearing, Assistant United States Attorney Timothy P. Dean presented evidence that established the connection between the ammunition and the shooting incident, effectively reinforcing the court’s decision to treat the act as attempted murder. Porter’s plea and the accompanying evidence culminated in his receiving a 100-month sentence.
Ongoing Legal Issues
In addition to the federal sentence, a related charge of aggravated assault remains pending against Porter in Chatham County Superior Court. This aspect of the case may lead to further legal challenges in the near future.
Public Safety Commitment
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, Margaret E. Heap, has reiterated her office’s commitment to prosecuting violent criminals who illegally possess firearms or ammunition. This case exemplifies ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and tackle the issue of violent crime in the community.
Porter’s lengthy sentence underscores the legal system’s response to gun violence and the serious implications of firearms possession for individuals with prior felony convictions. The swift action by law enforcement and the judicial system aims to deter similar incidents in the future and maintain public safety throughout Savannah.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Single Bullet Earns Savannah Man More Than 8 Years in Federal Prison
- WSAV: Savannah Man Sentenced After Discovery of Bullet in Pocket
- The Georgia Virtue: A Single Bullet Earns Three-Time Convicted Felon More Than Eight Years in Federal Prison
- Wikipedia: Firearm Violence
- Google Search: Savannah Man Shot Roommate

Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.