James Roosevelt Leach, Possessing a Loaded, Stolen Pistol, Pennsylvania 2018
A Washington, Pennsylvania felon is headed to prison for seven years after being caught with a loaded, stolen pistol and ammunition. James Roosevelt Leach, 47, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon in federal court.
On December 14, 2016, the Pennsylvania State Police performed a traffic stop near the City of Washington, Washington County. During the stop, troopers found Leach in possession of a loaded, stolen 9mm caliber Ruger pistol and a box of 9mm ammunition.
Leach's possession of the firearm and ammunition constitutes a federal crime, as he has a previous felony conviction in the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County, Pennsylvania, for crimes including rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime.
US Attorney Scott W. Brady commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Washington County District Attorney's Office, and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for their efforts in investigating and prosecuting the case.
Leach's sentencing marks a significant victory in the fight against violent crime in Washington County. The community can feel safer knowing that those who break the law will face serious consequences.
James Roosevelt Leach, Defendant
Charge: Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon
City and State: Washington, Pennsylvania
Date: December 2016
Sentence: 7 years in prison, followed by 3 years supervised release
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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