A man from McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has entered a guilty plea to federal firearms charges, as was made public yesterday. Paul Kirk, at 29 years old, stood before U.S. District Judge Cathy Bissoon and admitted to possessing a firearm and ammunition despite having prior felony convictions, the U.S. Attorney's Office reported.
The case against Kirk unfolded when, during a traffic stop on August 22, 2023, he attempted to evade McKeesport Police. After a short pursuit, the officers apprehended him, discovering a loaded handgun in his pocket. Due to his criminal record, his possession of the weapon violated federal law – which expressly prohibits felons from having firearms or ammo.
With his guilty plea on record, Kirk awaits sentencing on the calendar for May 29. If the full extent of the law is applied, Kirk could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine that may reach $250,000.
The prosecution of this case falls to Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael R. Ball. At the same time, the investigation was a cooperative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the McKeesport Police Department. Kirk's legal team has not released any statements regarding the guilty plea or his upcoming sentencing.
