Bellevue Felon Pleads Guilty to Gun Thefts

PITTSBURGH – In a stunning turn of events, Bellevue resident Patrick Snyder, 33, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts of violating federal firearms laws. The charges stem from a brazen series of gun thefts and sales that have had local law enforcement on high alert.

Snyder, who has a prior felony conviction, was caught with three firearms he stole from their lawful owners between December 2016 and January 2017. He then sold the weapons to third parties, putting them into the wrong hands and contributing to the illegal gun trade.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer oversaw Snyder’s plea hearing, where it was revealed that his actions were part of a concerted effort to profit from the black market for firearms. According to court documents, the judge has scheduled sentencing for November 1, 2017, when Snyder could face up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.

This case is a significant victory for Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Bellevue Police Department, with Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni leading the prosecution.

“Snyder’s actions are a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who exploit firearms laws for their own gain,” said Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song. “We will continue to work tirelessly to keep our communities safe from these types of criminals.”

RELATED: Convicted Ponzi Schemer Arrested in Florida After Failing to Show Up for Sentencing

RELATED: Bellevue Developer Dargey Pleads Guilty to $150M EB-5 Fraud