Evergreen Reporter

A Braddock resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for allegedly violating federal firearms laws. Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced the charge against Terrance Chatman, 33, who is named as the sole defendant in a one-count indictment.

The indictment alleges that on December 11, 2024, Chatman was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition despite having prior felony convictions. His past convictions include charges of murder, robbery, criminal conspiracy, and firearms offenses. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.

If convicted, Chatman faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence would depend on the severity of the offense and his prior criminal record according to federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Seonson is leading the prosecution for this case. The investigation was conducted by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This indictment 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. The Department launched an enhanced strategy for PSN on May 26, 2021, focusing on building trust within communities, supporting preventive community-based organizations, prioritizing strategic enforcement efforts, and evaluating outcomes.

It should be noted that an indictment is merely an accusation; defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.