Michael Allen Barnes, Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon, Pennsylvania 2024

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – In a shocking display of disregard for the law, 42-year-old Michael Allen Barnes of Norcross, Georgia, pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Barnes, who was previously convicted of burglary in Gwinnett County, Georgia, faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.

The crime was committed in downtown Pittsburgh on April 11, 2024, when law enforcement arrested Barnes on an outstanding Georgia arrest warrant. During the arrest, a chambered pistol loaded with approximately nine rounds of ammunition was recovered from the waistband of Barnes' pants.

Barnes was subsequently taken into custody and charged with violating a federal firearms law. First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced the guilty plea, which was made before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States. The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police's Fugitive Apprehension Unit and United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Barnes.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence by bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Michael Allen Barnes is currently awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for March 30, 2026. The federal Sentencing Guidelines will determine the actual sentence imposed, taking into account the seriousness of the offense and Barnes' prior criminal history.

The law enforcement agencies involved in this case are committed to keeping the community safe from individuals who disregard the law and put innocent lives at risk. By prosecuting Barnes for this serious crime, they are sending a strong message that violating federal firearms laws will not be tolerated.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/georgia-felon-pleads-guilty-possession-firearm-and-ammunition