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Warrensville Heights man charged for buying gun for suspect who killed Westerville police officers

The gun was purchased in Broadview Heights.

COLUMBUS -- A Warrensville Heights man is facing charges for buying a gun for the man who shot and killed two Westerville police officers over the weekend.

Gerald A. Lawson, 30, is charged with aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm by a prohibited person for allegedly buying a gun for Quentin Smith. Smith, a convicted felon, is accused of shooting and killing officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering in Westerville on Saturday. Morelli was a 1982 graduate of Massillon Washington High School.

Lawson was taken into custody Monday.

A witness told investigators that Smith gave Lawson money for the Glock, as well as an extra $100 for compensation. The Department of Justice says Lawson knew Smith was a convicted felon at the time of purchasing the gun in Broadview Heights. Smith previously lived in Cuyahoga County.

Lawson faces up to 10 years behind bars.

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