Nafiysh Knox-Schenck, a 33-year-old resident of Philadelphia, has been sentenced to 39 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon. This sentence was handed down by United States District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky after Knox-Schenck pleaded guilty to the charge in November. The case stems from an incident involving the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) last year.
The events unfolded on May 13, 2024, when two PPD officers attempted to arrest Knox-Schenck due to an outstanding warrant. During the encounter, he resisted and pulled a loaded firearm from his waistband, throwing it into the street. Another individual subsequently disposed of the weapon in a wooded area nearby. Despite initial resistance, officers managed to handcuff Knox-Schenck and secure him in their vehicle.
However, as officers retrieved their body camera and the firearm, someone opened the police vehicle door, allowing Knox-Schenck to escape custody on foot. He was later apprehended on May 15 with assistance from the United States Marshals Service following another arrest warrant issued by Philadelphia police.
U.S. Attorney David Metcalf commented on the case stating, “Knox-Schenck knew he wasn’t allowed to have a gun, given his criminal record, but he didn’t let that stop him.” He emphasized ongoing efforts with law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who violate federal gun laws.
Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division remarked that "ATF is committed to working with our partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals like Nafiysh Knox-Schenck who endanger our neighborhoods."
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. Since its relaunch on May 26, 2021, PSN focuses on fostering community trust and setting strategic enforcement priorities among other objectives.
The investigation was conducted by both the ATF and Philadelphia Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Tracie J. Gaydos from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.
