Mitchell Ocker-Mullen, Explosive Device Possession, Pennsylvania 2020

WILLIAMSPORT, PA - In a shocking turn of events, Mitchell Ocker-Mullen, a 23-year-old from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, has been charged with possession of five explosive devices. The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the indictment on December 10, 2020.

According to the indictment, Ocker-Mullen received and possessed the grenades from October 12, 2020, to October 29, 2020. The indictment alleges that he was prohibited from possessing the explosives due to a previous felony conviction in Centre County. Furthermore, the indictment states that Ocker-Mullen was not licensed to possess the grenades and had not registered them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

The case was investigated by the Bellefonte Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations, and all persons charged are presumed innocent until found guilty in court. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for each of the three offenses is 10 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances, and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public, and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational, and medical needs.

Ocker-Mullen, if found guilty, faces up to 30 years in prison, a fine, and supervised release. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of explosive device possession and the importance of following federal laws and regulations.

As the investigation continues, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The Bellefonte Police Department and the FBI are working tirelessly to ensure public safety and bring those responsible to justice.

Mandatory Facts:

• Defendant/Respondent: Mitchell Ocker-Mullen
• Criminal Charge: Possession of five explosive devices
• City and State: Williamsport, PA
• Date: October 12, 2020, to October 29, 2020
• Sentence/Outcome: Currently pending trial

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdpa/pr/bellefonte-man-charged-possession-five-explosive-devices