Modesto Ricard IV, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Indiana 2021

Grimy Times Exclusive

Gary Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm

Modesto Ricard IV, 32 years old, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Ricard was arrested on August 9, 2021, on an outstanding arrest warrant and a .380 caliber firearm was recovered from his pants pocket. His criminal history revealed a prior felony conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, making him prohibited from possessing the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force, and the East Chicago Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and the community.

Project Safe Neighborhoods is a strategy that fosters trust and legitimacy in communities, supports community-based organizations, sets focused enforcement priorities, and measures results. The program was strengthened in May 2021, with the goal of making neighborhoods safer for everyone.

Ricard’s sentence includes 51 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. His case serves as a reminder of the consequences of violating firearm laws and the importance of community partnerships in reducing violent crime.

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