ROCHESTER, NY – Tyree D. Washington, 40, is facing a substantial prison sentence after admitting to illegally possessing firearms. Washington pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen, bringing him one step closer to accountability for a reckless act that put Rochester residents at risk.
The case unfolded on November 26, 2022, when New York State Police attempted a routine traffic stop of Washington’s black BMW. Instead of complying, Washington floored it, sparking a high-speed chase through the streets of Rochester. The pursuit ended abruptly when Washington blew through a stop sign and slammed into the front porch of a home on South Plymouth Avenue.
Officers quickly took Washington into custody, and a search of the wrecked vehicle revealed the source of the danger: two loaded pistols. The discovery was particularly damning given Washington’s criminal history. He had previously been convicted of a felony in Monroe County Court in October 2009, a conviction that legally barred him from owning or possessing any firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassie Kocher is prosecuting the case, and is seeking the maximum penalty allowed by law. Washington now faces up to 15 years behind bars and a hefty $250,000 fine. The incident highlights the constant threat posed by repeat offenders and the importance of strict enforcement of gun laws.
Federal authorities say this case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy in May 2021, focusing on building trust, supporting local groups, prioritizing enforcement, and tracking results.
The investigation was a joint effort between the New York State Police, led by Major Brian Ratajczak, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito. Washington is scheduled to be sentenced on July 28, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge David G. Larimer. The Grimy Times will be in the courtroom.
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