PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Tyland Witherspoon, 28, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced to 45 months for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition. The sentence, handed down by United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV on July 28, 2025, sends a clear message: convicted felons aren’t allowed to arm themselves in this city.
Witherspoon was busted on or around June 19, 2024, caught red-handed with a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol and a supply of Smith & Wesson .40 caliber ammunition. This wasn’t a hunting trip gone wrong; Witherspoon already had a felony conviction on his record, making firearm possession a federal offense.
Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti didn’t mince words, announcing the sentencing and highlighting the danger posed by illegal guns on the streets. Federal law is absolute: a past felony conviction strips you of the right to own a firearm or ammunition, and Witherspoon ignored that law.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Stickman underscored the gravity of Witherspoon’s actions. The judge specifically noted the real and present danger that illegal firearms pose to the community, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense. It’s a sentiment shared by many who live in neighborhoods plagued by gun violence.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey successfully prosecuted the case, building a solid argument that secured the 45-month sentence. Witherspoon will also be subject to three years of federal supervised release after completing his prison term – a continued effort to keep him from re-offending.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Rivetti commended both agencies for their work in bringing Witherspoon to justice, demonstrating a commitment to tackling gun crime through collaborative law enforcement. This case serves as a stark reminder that those who break the law will be held accountable.
Related Federal Cases
- Bloomsburg Man Packs Heat, Gets 2 Years · Pennsylvania
- Wilkinsburg Felon Gets 8 Years for Illegal .22 · Pennsylvania
- Felon Graves Gets 8.3 Years for Loaded Gun in Boot · Pennsylvania
- Erie Woman Gets 21 Months for Hiding Felon in Attic Crawl Space · Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Felon Tyrenzo Morton Gets 3½ Years for Second Escape · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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