Pittsburgh man indicted for illegal firearm possession following government shutdown

Troy Rivetti, U.S. Attorney%27s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania - Department of Justice
Troy Rivetti, U.S. Attorney%27s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania - Department of Justice
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A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury for violating federal firearms law, according to an announcement from First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.

The indictment charges James W. McKissick III, 32, with possession of a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The alleged offense occurred on or about August 29, 2025. Federal law prohibits individuals who have been convicted of a felony from possessing firearms or ammunition.

If convicted, McKissick faces up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing would be determined based on the seriousness of the offense and the defendant’s prior criminal history under federal guidelines.

“An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty,” the release stated.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting the case for the government. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

This release follows a 43-day government shutdown during which the indictment occurred.



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