Kenneth Gaines, Gun Possession, Pennsylvania 2024

PITTSBURGH, PA – Kenneth Gaines, 33, of Pittsburgh, is facing federal charges after being indicted by a grand jury for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition. The indictment, announced Wednesday by U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan, alleges Gaines knowingly broke the law despite prior felony convictions that disqualify him from owning weapons.

The charges stem from an incident on February 15, 2024, when authorities say Gaines was found in possession of both a firearm and ammunition. Federal statutes are clear: anyone convicted of a felony is prohibited from possessing either. This isn’t a case of a first-time mistake; Gaines’ criminal history makes this a repeat offense, potentially adding years to any sentence.

If convicted, Gaines could face a maximum sentence of up to 15 years behind bars. The penalties don’t stop there. He’s also looking at a potential fine of up to $250,000. However, the actual sentence will be determined by federal sentencing guidelines, taking into account the specifics of the crime and Gaines’ prior record.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael R. Ball and Kelly M. Locher. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, spearheaded the investigation, highlighting a collaborative effort to keep illegal guns off the streets.

This prosecution is part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence across the country. Launched in 2021, PSN emphasizes building trust with communities, supporting local violence prevention programs, and strategically focusing enforcement efforts.

It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is not a declaration of guilt. Gaines is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. The full force of federal law will be brought to bear if Gaines is found to have violated the rights of law-abiding citizens.

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