Paul Anthony Parrish, Gun Possession by Felon, Pennsylvania 2020
Tragedy Strikes in Pittsburgh as Felon's Gun Causes Child's Death
On March 12, 2017, a three-year-old child was rushed to Allegheny General Hospital with a gunshot wound to her chest. Despite medical efforts, the child tragically passed away from the injuries.
An investigation led by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police revealed that the child had likely found a firearm at a residence on Mount Washington, which belonged to Paul Anthony Parrish, a 43-year-old resident of Pittsburgh. The Ruger SR9 pistol was recovered from the scene, and it was discovered that Parrish had been in possession of the firearm for three months prior to the accident.
Parrish had previously received four separate convictions for felony offenses, which prohibited him from owning a firearm. These convictions included voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and fleeing and attempting to elude police.
Parrish pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in federal court, as announced by United States Attorney Scott W. Brady. The court was advised of the investigation's findings, and Parrish's guilty plea was accepted.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, Parrish faces a total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. The actual sentence imposed will be based on the seriousness of the offense and Parrish's prior criminal history.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak scheduled sentencing for February 13, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. Parrish was ordered to be detained pending the court's decision on filings by the parties.
Assistant United States Attorneys Douglas C. Maloney and Ross E. Lenhardt are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government, which was conducted in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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