Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Firearm Possession

A Philadelphia man received a ten-year federal prison sentence for illegally possessing a firearm while reportedly planning a retaliatory act. The sentence was announced by United States Attorney David Metcalf, who confirmed that 40-year-old Jeffrey Hernandez was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. The ruling came from U.S. District Judge Wendy Beetlestone, marking the maximum penalty allowed under federal law.

Hernandez pleaded guilty in August 2023 to the felony charge of illegal firearm possession. Court documents revealed that he was found in possession of a loaded 9mm semiautomatic pistol containing 30 live rounds. Prosecutors indicated that Hernandez was aware he was prohibited from owning a firearm due to his previous felony conviction.

Federal investigators recovered the weapon after receiving credible intelligence regarding Hernandez and three other men. They were allegedly traveling to commit a retaliatory killing related to an earlier shooting incident. Despite the serious implications of the alleged plot, prosecutors clarified that the charges against Hernandez were strictly for illegal possession of a firearm and did not extend to any conspiracy or planned act of violence.

Joint Investigation by Federal and Local Agencies

The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, and the Philadelphia Police Department. This joint operation underscores the coordinated approach law enforcement agencies are taking to address gun violence and criminal activity in the area.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Martin alongside Special Assistant United States Attorney Meagan Gordon. Their efforts reflect the commitment of federal authorities to enforce strict laws regarding firearm possession, particularly among individuals with prior felony convictions.

Hernandez’s case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and the legal ramifications of firearm possession in the United States. As law enforcement continues to tackle these issues, the collaboration between federal and local agencies remains crucial in ensuring community safety.