Browning Man Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Manslaughter, Gun Charges

GREAT FALLS — A 21-year-old Browning man pleaded not guilty Monday to federal charges of involuntary manslaughter and illegal firearm possession in connection with a December shooting death.

Treyson Lee Sharp appeared for arraignment in federal court in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston. Sharp was released pending further proceedings.

Sharp’s release includes several conditions, according to court documents. He is under home detention, restricted to his residence except for employment, education, medical treatment, attorney visits and court appearances. He must also surrender any firearms, continue mental health treatment, avoid alcohol use, submit to drug testing and report to the U.S. Probation Office.

The indictment alleges that on December 28, 2024, Sharp killed an individual identified as Jane Doe while discharging a loaded firearm. Federal prosecutors say Sharp pointed the weapon at the victim and fired, killing her.

“Without due caution and circumspection, [Sharp] killed Jane Doe, in the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, that is, he discharged a loaded firearm while pointing it at Jane Doe, killing her,” the indictment states.

Sharp also faces charges for possessing an unregistered short-barreled shotgun. The weapon had an overall length of less than 26 inches and a barrel of less than 18 inches, according to court documents. Federal law requires such weapons to be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The case is being prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative targeting violent crime, cartels and illegal immigration.

If convicted, Sharp faces up to eight years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the manslaughter charge. The firearm possession charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.

The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the FBI, ATF, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley is prosecuting the case.

“The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office stated.