McKeesport, PA – Rashawn Walker, 32, is headed to federal prison for four years after being sentenced for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania announced Wednesday. The conviction stems from a volatile December 2021 where Walker allegedly threatened violence and then brandished a weapon.
According to court documents, Walker’s troubles began December 28th, 2021, when he reportedly threatened to “shoot up” the location of his girlfriend. Just two hours later, Walker allegedly escalated the situation, physically assaulting another woman and then pulling a Glock pistol on her. Police intervened almost immediately, stopping Walker and discovering the loaded 9mm Glock, complete with a high-capacity 24-round extended magazine.
Federal law is clear: convicted felons are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Walker’s prior criminal history makes this offense a serious federal crime. Prosecutors presented evidence to the court indicating Walker’s pattern of possessing firearms extended beyond the December 2021 incidents, painting a picture of a repeat offender with a disregard for the law.
U.S. District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan handed down the 48-month sentence, followed by three years of supervised release. Judge Ranjan specifically cited Walker’s threatening behavior and continued access to firearms as justification for exceeding the standard sentencing guidelines. The judge clearly signaled that Walker’s actions posed a demonstrable threat to public safety.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas C. Maloney led the prosecution, securing the conviction and subsequent sentence. The case was built on an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan commending their work in bringing Walker to justice. The ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division was instrumental in the investigation.
This case serves as a stark reminder that illegally possessing a firearm, especially with a prior criminal record, carries significant federal penalties. While McKeesport and the surrounding areas struggle with rising gun violence, federal agencies like the ATF continue to work to remove dangerous individuals and weapons from the streets. Walker’s sentence should send a message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
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