Charlotin Packs Heat, Gets 5 Years in Federal Prison

BOSTON, MA – Kerry Charlotin, 30, of Boston, is trading the streets of Mattapan for a federal prison cell after receiving a five-year sentence today for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young handed down the sentence, followed by three years of supervised release, solidifying a clear message: criminals with guns will face serious consequences.

The case unfolded on May 1, 2019, when Boston Police officers patrolling Blue Hill Avenue in response to resident complaints of drug dealing and public drinking spotted Charlotin sporting a black backpack. Upon noticing the police presence, Charlotin bolted. A frantic foot chase ensued, culminating in Charlotin ditching the backpack – which landed on a building roof – and attempting to further evade capture. He was ultimately cornered hiding in a fenced-in backyard.

Inside the discarded backpack, officers discovered a loaded Glock 26, 9mm caliber Lugar semi-automatic pistol. The weapon held nine rounds of ammunition, one chambered and ready to fire. The discovery wasn’t just about an illegal weapon; it was about a prohibited individual – Charlotin, with prior felony convictions – possessing the means to inflict serious harm. Federal law explicitly bars convicted felons from owning firearms or ammunition.

“This isn’t a simple gun charge,” stated sources within the investigation. “This is about removing a dangerous individual and a loaded weapon from a neighborhood already struggling with crime. Charlotin’s attempt to flee and discard the firearm speaks volumes about his intent.” The incident highlights the ongoing battle against illegal firearms flooding Boston’s streets and the dedication of law enforcement to stem the tide.

The collaborative effort that led to Charlotin’s conviction involved the United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling, Kelly Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division, and Boston Police Commissioner William G. Gross. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Weinstein of Lelling’s Criminal Division skillfully prosecuted the case, securing the conviction and subsequent sentencing.

This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive program designed to unite law enforcement at all levels with local communities to combat violent crime. PSN emphasizes targeted strategies tailored to specific neighborhoods, aiming to build safer environments for all residents. The Department’s renewed focus on violent criminals signals a commitment to aggressive prosecution and a crackdown on illegal gun activity.