Erie Man Caught with Firearm After 13 Years Behind Bars
James Presley, a 43-year-old resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, found himself back in hot water after being caught with a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Presley pleaded guilty to the charge in federal court on December 12, 2014, in front of Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Presley admitted to possessing a 9mm handgun and ammunition while driving on Interstate 80 near Hazleton on May 15, 2014. The defendant’s prior felony convictions, including a conviction for murder in 1992 in Philadelphia, made him ineligible to possess a firearm. Presley served 13 years in prison for the murder.
The charge against Presley resulted from an investigation by Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pennsylvania State Police. Presley faces a potential maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He remains in custody pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is handling the case. The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies in the region to keeping our communities safe from violent crime. In a statement, Attorney General Eric Holder warned that those who attempt to circumvent the law will be held accountable.
The case serves as a reminder that individuals with prior felony convictions face strict penalties for violating federal firearms laws. The sentence Presley faces is a testament to the seriousness with which the courts view such offenses.
As the investigation unfolded, authorities revealed that Presley’s actions were a brazen disregard for the law, putting innocent lives at risk. The guilty plea marks a significant victory for law enforcement and the community, and serves as a warning to others who may consider similar actions.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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