Rochester Felon James Gilmore Sentenced to 10 Years for Gun Possession

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – James Gilmore, 35, of Rochester, Pennsylvania, has been handed down a 10-year sentence in federal court for the possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, announced Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti today.

The sentence, which includes three years of supervised release, was imposed by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Gilmore’s conviction stems from an incident on June 9, 2021, where he evaded law enforcement during a traffic stop and discarded a firearm with a 30-round magazine attached from his vehicle.

After the pursuit, Gilmore abandoned his car and fled on foot through residential areas of Rochester. Despite initially eluding police, evidence later linked Gilmore to the crime scene through DNA found on the firearm and a sweatshirt recovered nearby. The firearm was confirmed as previously reported stolen.

Gilmore’s history of criminal activity included previous sentences ranging from two to four years, with terms up to eight years for firearms and controlled substances offenses. At the time of this latest offense, he was on parole related to similar charges.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan J. McKenna and V. Joseph Sonson handled the prosecution for the government. Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti commended the New Brighton Area Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their diligent work in bringing Gilmore to justice.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness with which we take gun crimes, especially when committed by felons,” Rivetti stated. “The public is safer because of the efforts of our law enforcement partners.”

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