Rensselaer Felon Lands 15 Years for Illegally Possessing Firearm

Rensselaer resident Andrew Williams, 38, is facing up to 15 years behind bars after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm in a devastating blow to the community.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, on May 2, 2023, Williams was found to be in possession of 16 firearms, including a rifle, and ammunition at his residence in Rensselaer. This discovery led to the charging of the 38-year-old felon with violating federal laws due to his prior conviction for burglary in the third degree.

The investigation into Williams’ illicit activities was carried out by the ATF and the East Greenbush Police Department, with the assistance of the Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emmet O’Hanlon and Mikayla Espinosa are prosecuting the case.

The severity of Williams’ sentence stems from the fact that his prior felony conviction prohibited him from legally possessing firearms and ammunition. As a result, he now faces a prison term of up to 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 3 years.

A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for September 4, 2024, before United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. The court’s decision will be based on the specific statute Williams is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other relevant factors.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice initiative aimed at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, law enforcement agencies, community groups, and other stakeholders work together to identify and address the root causes of violent crime in their communities.

Williams’ guilty plea marks another significant victory for law enforcement in their ongoing efforts to combat gun violence and keep the streets safer for all citizens.