Felon Caught with Firearms

PITTSBURGH, Pa – In a shocking turn of events, a former resident of Turtle Creek, PA has pleaded guilty to violating federal firearms laws, leaving many to wonder how such a blatant disregard for the law could occur.

Hashim Rashad, age 25, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearms by a convicted felon before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Rashad’s guilty plea came after Pittsburgh Police executed a search warrant at his residence on Larimer Avenue in Turtle Creek, PA on October 18, 2017. The search revealed a stash of firearms, including an EZ9 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number and a Bryco Arms Jennings J-22, 22LR handgun, which was previously reported stolen.

The Bryco Arms Jennings J-22 handgun, which was found inside a purse in the living room, is a stark reminder of the dangers of gun violence and the importance of strict firearms regulations. Rashad’s possession of this stolen firearm is a serious offense, and it is a miracle that no one was harmed during the search.

Rashad’s history of crime is well-documented, with a previous conviction for voluntary manslaughter, a crime punishable by more than one year. At the time of the offense, Rashad was on parole for that same crime. It is astounding that someone with such a violent past could be so reckless with firearms.

The federal government has taken a strong stance against gun violence, and it is clear that Rashad’s actions will not be taken lightly. Judge Bissoon has scheduled sentencing for February 15, 2019 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and prior record of the defendant.

This case is a stark reminder of the importance of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, which has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority, and it is clear that this case is a step in the right direction.

The investigation leading to Rashad’s guilty plea was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police – Narcotics and Vice Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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