PITTSBURGH, PA – Marcus Thompkins, 27, is facing serious time after admitting to illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition while already under federal supervision. The Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court today to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, a charge that carries a hefty maximum sentence.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced the guilty plea, detailing how Thompkins knowingly possessed a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol, Model 40 VE, along with approximately fifty rounds of .40 caliber Winchester ammunition. This wasn’t a random search; Thompkins was on federal supervised release at the time of the offense – meaning he was already supposed to be abiding by strict conditions after a previous conviction.
The break in the case came from an observant officer with the United States Probation Office. Seeing Thompkins with the weapon triggered a joint operation with the United States Marshal Service. They quickly secured a search warrant for Thompkins’ home, and the gun and ammo were seized as evidence. It’s a stark reminder that probation isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card, and violations are taken seriously.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab has scheduled Thompkins’ sentencing for October 19, 2017. He could face a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. However, the actual sentence will be determined by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, taking into account the severity of the crime and Thompkins’ prior criminal history – a history that clearly didn’t deter him.
Following the guilty plea, Judge Schwab immediately remanded Thompkins to federal custody. He’ll be cooling his heels behind bars until sentencing. Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is leading the prosecution, ensuring Thompkins answers for his actions.
The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the United States Marshals Service, and the United States Probation Office. This case underscores the importance of interagency cooperation in keeping dangerous weapons out of the hands of convicted felons and off the streets of Pittsburgh. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the final sentencing.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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