Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Paul Kirk, 29, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon to one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on August 22, 2023, Kirk fled from McKeesport Police officers during a traffic stop. Upon Kirk’s being taken into custody a short distance from the traffic stop, officers found a loaded handgun in the defendant’s pocket. Kirk has multiple previous felony convictions. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant remain in custody.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and McKeesport Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kirk.