Repeat Offender Stevens Nabbed With Illegal Pistol

PITTSBURGH, PA – Another career criminal walks the streets no more… at least, not freely. Byron Stevens, 33, of Pittsburgh, admitted in federal court today to being a convicted felon illegally packing heat. He pled guilty before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr., sealing his fate for possessing a .380 caliber AMT pistol despite a rap sheet stretching back years.

Stevens’ history isn’t a minor infraction here and there. United States Attorney David J. Hickton confirmed the defendant had already racked up at least six prior felony convictions prior to May 30, 2012 – several landing him behind state prison bars. This wasn’t a first-time offense; it was a pattern of disregard for the law. The pistol in question came into his possession on that date, and predictably, things went south quickly.

According to court documents, Stevens attempted to flee during a traffic stop initiated by Pittsburgh police officers. In a desperate bid to ditch the evidence, he tossed the .380 AMT out the window. A clear sign of guilt, and a failed attempt to cover his tracks. The quick-thinking officers recovered the weapon, initiating the federal investigation that led to today’s guilty plea.

The feds aren’t messing around. Stevens now faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, alongside a hefty fine of up to $250,000, or both. However, the actual sentence will be determined based on the severity of the crime and – unsurprisingly – his extensive criminal history. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines won’t be kind to a repeat offender like Stevens.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is leading the prosecution, ensuring Stevens is held accountable for his actions. The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative initiative aimed at tackling gun violence at the local level.

Sentencing is scheduled for September 4, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. Grimy Times will be there to report the final outcome. This case serves as a stark reminder that illegally possessing a firearm, especially with a lengthy criminal record, carries serious consequences. The streets of Pittsburgh are a little safer tonight, thanks to the work of federal and local law enforcement.