Joshua S. Levy, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts
A Newton resident has been charged in federal court with the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. James Welch, 29, faces one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. His court appearance is pending.
According to charging documents, authorities recovered two firearms—a pistol and a rifle—and ammunition during a search at Welch's residence on February 28, 2025. Due to multiple prior felony convictions, Welch is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
The charge carries a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge according to U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes.
United States Attorney Leah Foley and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives' Boston Field Division announced the charges. The Newton Police Department assisted with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric L. Hawkins from the Major Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
It should be noted that the details provided are allegations at this stage. Welch is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
