PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Tyland Witherspoon, 28, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced to 45 months for possessing a firearm despite a prior felony conviction. The sentence, handed down by United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV on July 28, 2025, sends a clear message: felons aren’t allowed to arm themselves in this city.
According to court documents, Witherspoon was caught red-handed on or about June 19, 2024, with a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol and Smith & Wesson .40 caliber ammunition. This wasn’t a misunderstanding; Witherspoon already had a criminal record, making firearm possession a federal offense. Federal law is blunt: convicted felons are barred from owning or possessing guns or ammo.
The case, prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey, highlights the ongoing struggle to keep weapons out of the hands of those legally prohibited from having them. Witherspoon’s actions weren’t just a violation of the law, they represented a potential danger to the community. Judge Stickman didn’t mince words, emphasizing the risk illegal firearms pose to public safety.
This conviction isn’t happening in a vacuum. Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti made it clear that this was a collaborative effort. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police worked together to investigate Witherspoon’s activities, building a solid case that led to his conviction and subsequent sentencing.
Beyond the 45 months behind bars, Witherspoon will face another three years under federal supervised release after his imprisonment. This means he’ll be monitored, adding another layer of accountability. The feds aren’t letting him off easy, and they’re making sure he doesn’t revert to old habits.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on efforts to combat illegal gun violence in Western Pennsylvania. This sentencing serves as a reminder that those who choose to break the law, especially when it comes to firearms, will face serious consequences. Witherspoon’s 45-month sentence isn’t just about him; it’s about sending a strong signal to anyone considering a similar path.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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