HARRISBURG – A Dauphin County man has been handed a 115-month sentence for manufacturing an unregistered firearm, marking a significant victory in the ongoing fight against illegal gun possession. Philip Shearer, 49, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on July 14, 2025, by United States District Judge Karoline Mehalchick.
According to Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus, Shearer admitted to possessing a privately-manufactured short-barrel rifle, over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, several high-capacity magazines, and tactical gear like night vision goggles and a ghillie suit. These items were discovered in Shearer’s Harrisburg residence.
Shearer’s criminal history is extensive, with 14 prior convictions, including five driving under the influence convictions, an indecent assault conviction, and a domestic violence conviction. Despite multiple attempts to purchase a firearm, his background check prevented him from doing so, leading him to create firearms himself.
“The sentencing of Philip Shearer underscores the severe threat posed by felons who unlawfully possess and manufacture firearms,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Edward V. Owens. “Homeland Security Investigations is committed to working with law enforcement partners like ATF to keep violent criminals without firearms.”
Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division, echoed this sentiment: “Protecting our communities from dangerous individuals like Philip Shearer is a top ATF priority. With his extensive criminal record, including domestic violence and DUIs, he was lawfully prohibited from owning the unregistered firearm he made.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the ATF, with Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Dukes prosecuting the matter. It is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative targeting illegal immigration, cartels, transnational criminal organizations, and violent crime.
Related Federal Cases
- Tax Thief Gets 20 Months · Pennsylvania
- Fake Robbery, Real Crime: Credit Union Worker Gets Prison · Pennsylvania
- Credit Union Thief Gets 8 Months · Pennsylvania
- AG James vs. Fed’s Illegal Guard Deployment · Pennsylvania
- James Stops HUD’s Illegal Move on Homeless Fund · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News