Royal Lee Griffin, Gun Charge, Pennsylvania 2021

A former Rankin resident has been accused of violating federal firearm laws in western Pennsylvania, federal authorities announced today.

Royal Lee Griffin, 31, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman said.

The indictment alleges that on April 22, 2021, Griffin possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Allegheny County Police and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Griffin’s crime allegedly occurred in western Pennsylvania, where he was previously a resident of Rankin, a borough located just outside of Pittsburgh. The investigation was led by local authorities and federal agents, who worked together to gather evidence against Griffin.

The total possible penalty for this crime includes up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. However, the actual sentence would depend on various factors, including the severity of the crime and Griffin’s prior criminal history.

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