ST. GABRIEL — A St. Gabriel man has been sentenced to life in prison after a jury found him guilty of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

District Judge Elizabeth Engolio issued the sentence in the 18th Judicial District Court, classifying Jarrel Q. Smith, 33, as a habitual offender.

An Iberville Parish jury needed less than 5 minutes to reach a guilty verdict in April. District Attorney Tony Clayton said it was one of the quickest verdicts he can recall.

Smith was arrested on Sept. 20, 2024, after he exited his vehicle at an apartment complex while in possession of a firearm, which was illegal because of his prior convictions.

His criminal history includes attempted second degree murder, aggravated assault with a firearm and violation of a protective order. He also had prior illegal possession of a firearm charges and has other pending charges against him.

The guilty verdict led the District Attorney's Office to file to have Smith classified as a habitual offender, which resulted in the life sentence handed down today.