Albany Gun Grab: Felon Charles Williams Faces Federal Charges

ALBANY, NY – Charles E. Williams, 34, of Albany, is looking at serious time after being indicted on federal firearms charges. The feds allege Williams illegally possessed a loaded weapon despite a prior felony conviction, making him prohibited from owning a firearm.

According to court documents, Williams was found with a Smith & Wesson .357 caliber revolver in Albany County on November 18, 2021. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and United States Marshal David L. McNulty announced the indictment today, a clear signal the feds aren’t playing around with gun crime in the region.

This isn’t just about a gun; it’s about a repeat offender allegedly flouting the law. Federal statutes explicitly bar Williams from possessing any firearm due to his previous conviction. The indictment stresses these are merely accusations, and Williams is presumed innocent until proven guilty – but the stakes are high.

If convicted, Williams faces a maximum sentence of 10 years behind bars, a hefty fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of post-release supervision. Sentencing, however, will fall to the judge, who will consider federal guidelines and other factors when determining the final punishment.

United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart arraigned Williams today and ordered him held without bail pending trial. The U.S. Marshals Service is leading the investigation, receiving crucial support from the North Greenbush Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner is prosecuting the case, and sources within the USAO tell Grimy Times this is part of a larger crackdown on illegal firearms circulating in upstate New York. Expect more indictments to come. This case serves as a stark reminder that possessing a firearm while prohibited carries severe consequences.