GARY, IN – Modesto Ricard IV, 32, is headed back to prison after receiving a 51-month sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon handed down the sentence Friday, adding another layer of consequences to a pattern of criminal behavior.
Ricard’s troubles began August 9, 2021, when law enforcement moved to arrest him on an outstanding warrant. A search revealed a .380 caliber handgun tucked into his pants pocket. The discovery wasn’t just about the gun itself, but about who was carrying it. Ricard already had a felony conviction – for the same offense – making any firearm possession illegal.
According to court documents, this wasn’t Ricard’s first dance with a gun charge. His prior felony conviction effectively barred him from owning or possessing any firearm. The repeat offense clearly weighed heavily in Judge Simon’s sentencing decision, sending a message that such disregard for the law won’t be tolerated.
The case was a joint effort by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the East Chicago Police Department. Investigators pieced together the evidence, leading to Ricard’s guilty plea and subsequent sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Padula prosecuted the case.
Federal officials are framing Ricard’s sentencing as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence across the country. The program focuses on building trust with communities, supporting local organizations, and strategic enforcement. It’s a familiar refrain, but one that underscores the ongoing struggle to curb gun-related offenses.
Following his 51-month prison term, Ricard will face an additional two years of supervised release. Whether this will be enough to keep him from returning to his old habits remains to be seen. For now, the streets of Gary are a little safer – but the fight against illegal firearms continues.
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