A Newton man, James Welch, 29, has pleaded guilty to a federal firearms charge. On Tuesday, Welch appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper and admitted to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Sentencing is scheduled for September 11.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office release, Welch was charged in February. During a search of his home on February 28, authorities found a pistol, a rifle, and ammunition. As a convicted felon, Welch is legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
He faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The final sentence will be determined based on federal sentencing guidelines and relevant statutes.
The case was announced by U.S. Attorney Leah Foley and Acting ATF Special Agent in Charge Scott Riordan. The Newton Police Department assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric L. Hawkins of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
