Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Peter Digiacomo, 31, formerly of Brockway, Pa., pleaded guilty to four counts before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on various dates between July 2016 and March 2017, Digiacomo recruited straw purchasers to buy a total of 20 guns, and acquired one additional stolen gun which he later transferred to another individual. Digiacomo admitted to investigators that since he cannot purchase firearms due to prior convictions, including one for domestic violence, he solicited others to purchase firearms. The straw purchasers provided false information on federal forms in order to facilitate the purchase of the firearms. Due to his prior conviction, Digiacomo is prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms.

Chief Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for August 30, 2018. The law provides, at each count, for a maximum sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses, and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Judge Conti ordered the defendant to remain detained pending sentencing.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with a detective from the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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