HAMMOND, IN – Frank Washington III, 37, of Merrillville, Indiana, is facing a lengthy stretch behind bars after being sentenced to 70 months in prison yesterday for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The sentence was handed down by Senior Judge Moody of the United States District Court, following Washington’s guilty plea.
Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor announced the sentencing, detailing a case rooted in brazen disregard for the law. Washington, with a history of multiple robbery convictions, was caught in Gary back in February 2025 carrying a stolen handgun loaded with ammunition. This wasn’t a hidden weapon; reports indicate Washington repeatedly drove around town with the firearm openly displayed in a holster on his waist.
The investigation, spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force, with crucial support from the Gary Police Department, painted a clear picture of Washington’s dangerous behavior. Investigators uncovered evidence demonstrating a pattern of reckless endangerment, adding weight to the prosecution’s case.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean R. Lanter successfully prosecuted the case, securing the 70-month prison term and a subsequent three years of supervised release. This isn’t just about one gun; it’s about removing a repeat offender from the streets and sending a message that illegally possessing firearms comes with serious consequences. Sources within the ATF indicated the firearm was linked to a recent string of burglaries in the Gary area, though charges related to those incidents remain pending.
This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive initiative designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, alongside community involvement. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021, emphasizing trust-building, community support, and strategic enforcement.
While Washington’s sentence provides a temporary reprieve for the citizens of Gary, the Grimy Times will continue to monitor his case and report on any further developments. The fight against gun violence and violent crime remains a constant battle, and we’ll be on the front lines, exposing the truth and holding criminals accountable. This case serves as a stark reminder that the consequences for flouting the law are severe, especially for those with a documented history of criminal activity.”
RELATED: Merrillville Felon Packs Heat, Gets 70 Months
Related Federal Cases
- Merrillville Felon Packs Heat, Gets 70 Months · Washington
- Allen Gets 22 Years for Sickening Child Pornography · Washington
- $1.4M Bank Heist Duo Nabbed in Washington · Washington
- Skilled Nursing Home Chain Fails to Deliver Care, Gets $38M Fine · Pennsylvania
- Live Nation Faces Trial Over Monopoly Practices · Washington
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News