JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Another thug with a rap sheet and a taste for trouble is facing federal time. Eric P. Williams, 35, of Johnstown, pleaded guilty today to violating federal firearms laws, adding to a criminal history that already includes a felony robbery conviction. Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song didn’t mince words, announcing the plea as another victory in the ongoing battle against gun violence.
The case stems back to December 8, 2015, when Williams was found to be in possession of a Stevens, Model 350, 12 gauge shotgun, and a Mossberg, Model 715T, .22 LR caliber, semi-automatic rifle. This wasn’t a hunting accident. Williams had been convicted in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, back in 2001 of robbery – a crime carrying a sentence of more than a year. Federal law is clear: a felony conviction like that means no firearms, no ammunition. He ignored that law, and now he’s paying the price.
Federal authorities aren’t letting this slide. United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson has scheduled sentencing for August 3, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. Williams is looking at a maximum of 10 years behind bars, alongside a hefty $250,000 fine. But the final sentence will be determined by the seriousness of the offense and Williams’ extensive criminal history, according to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Expect no leniency.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. is handling the prosecution, building a solid case based on evidence gathered by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. These agents did the legwork, tracing the firearms and building the case that ultimately led to Williams’ guilty plea. This wasn’t some isolated incident; it was a targeted investigation.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a well-worn but still relevant initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to tackle gun crime. It’s a collaborative effort designed to not just punish offenders like Williams, but to prevent future violence. The message is clear: if you’re a convicted felon illegally packing heat, you will be caught.
Williams’ plea is a stark reminder that possessing firearms after a felony conviction is a serious federal offense. While the investigation is complete, the consequences for Williams are just beginning. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the final sentencing.
Related Federal Cases
- Valley Felons Busted with Illegal Firearms · Washington
- Johnstown’s Sean Zachary Horton, 29, Cuffed for Illegal Firearm Possession · Pennsylvania
- Ohio Felon Caught With 3 Firearms in Checked Luggage · Puerto Rico
- Northumberland Man Hoards Illegal Firearms · Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Felon Caught with Illegal Gun · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
WeaponsWeaponsWeaponsWeapons