Haliston Este, Firearms Conspiracy, Pennsylvania 2021

Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Steal Firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees

In a shocking turn of events, Haliston Este, a 28-year-old resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal firearms from federal firearm licensees.

According to the guilty plea, Este conspired with several others to steal firearms from Allegheny Arms and Gun Works, a federal firearm licensee, on the night of May 30, 2020. The conspirators used a crowbar to attempt to gain entry to the gun store, which triggered a burglary alarm.

This alarmed caused the conspirators to run away, but Este and his conspirators then drove to National Armory in Moon Township, also a federal firearm licensee. On May 31, 2020, a crowbar was again used to pry open a door, triggering the burglary alarm and causing the conspirators to flee once more.

Este pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. The court was advised that Este conspired with several others to steal firearms, and that the conspirators used a crowbar to attempt to gain entry to the gun store.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Este on bond. Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

Este’s sentencing is scheduled for November 23, 2021. The consequences of Este’s actions are a sobering reminder of the importance of upholding the law and protecting our communities from violent crime.