John Coffin, Armed Career Criminal, New York 2015

A federal grand jury has returned a two-count superseding indictment charging Schenectady man John Coffin, 46, of being a felon and armed career criminal in possession of a firearm, as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Coffin faces the maximum of life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine if convicted of either count. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on a combination of factors including the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes.

The superseding indictment alleges that on March 23, 2015, Coffin possessed a Walther P22 semi-automatic pistol and .22 caliber ammunition. The superseding indictment also alleges that on July 28, 2015, Coffin possessed a Hi-Point 995 9-millimeter rifle and 9-millimeter ammunition, and possessed that rifle and ammunition in connection with a drug trafficking crime.

The charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Coffin has three prior convictions for violent felonies or drug trafficking crimes, making him an armed career criminal under federal law and subject to a minimum 15-year prison sentence if convicted.

Additionally, any person convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is subject to a minimum 5-year prison sentence. Coffin faces the maximum of life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine if convicted of either count.

Trial is scheduled to begin on March 21, 2016 before United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe. Coffin is detained until trial. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Schenectady Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wayne A. Myers and Kofi Sansculotte.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat gun violence and drug trafficking in our community. The public can help by reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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