PITTSBURGH, PA — United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, that a Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating firearms legislation.
Kenneth Gaines, 33, is the subject of the one-count indictment, which alleges that on February 15, 2024, he was in possession of a firearm and ammunition despite having prior felony convictions. Federal regulations strictly prohibit individuals with felony convictions from owning or handling firearms and ammunition.
The indictment against Gaines could lead to a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or both, depending on the gravity of the offense and Gaines’ previous criminal record, as outlined by the federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Assistant United States Attorneys Michael R. Ball and Kelly M. Locher are leading the prosecution of this case, representing the interests of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in collaboration with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the comprehensive investigation that culminated in Gaines’ indictment.
It is important to emphasize that an indictment is merely a formal charge and not a determination of guilt. Kenneth Gaines, like all individuals accused of a crime, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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