Pittsburgh man indicted for firearm possession as convicted felon

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Troy Rivetti, U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania | Department of Justice

Pittsburgh man indicted for firearm possession as convicted felon

A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating federal firearms law, according to First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.

The indictment identifies James W. McKissick III, 32, as the sole defendant. Authorities allege that on or about August 29, 2025, McKissick possessed a firearm and ammunition despite being a previously convicted felon. Federal law bars individuals with felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition.

If convicted, McKissick faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence would be determined based on the seriousness of the offense and his prior criminal history under federal sentencing guidelines.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting the case for the government. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

"An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty," stated the release.