In a shocking turn of events, two Duquesne, Pa., residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms laws and making false statements to federal law enforcement. United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced the indictment today.
The five-count indictment, returned on March 21 and unsealed on August 9, 2018, named Khalil Armstrong, 26, and Melvin Bowles, 24, as the defendants. The charges include conspiracy to make false statements in the acquisition of a firearm, making false statements to a licensed firearm dealer, making false statements to federal law enforcement, and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon by Melvin Bowles.
According to the indictment, in February 2018, Armstrong and Bowles conspired to make false statements in the acquisition of a firearm. On February 7, 2018, Armstrong made false statements to a licensed firearm dealer in the acquisition of a firearm. On February 12, 2018, Armstrong made false statements to federal law enforcement. On February 15, 2018, Bowles allegedly possessed a firearm as a convicted felon.
The defendants face a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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