DOJ Seal

Department of Justice

U.S. Attorney's Office
Western District of New York

For Immediate Release

Thursday, August 4, 2022
Trini E. Ross
, United States Attorney

Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearms

ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Robert Shelton, 37, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew McGrath, who is handling the case, stated that Shelton was previously convicted of felony charges in 2008, 2009, and 2012, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. On March 7, 2020, Shelton sold two firearms to an individual working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, including a pistol, a rifle, and ammunition.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito.

Sentencing is scheduled for November 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Geraci.

New York Field Division