Department of Justice
For Immediate Release
New Haven Man Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearm and Ammunition
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT EPPS, 25, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 40 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 28, 2017, EPPS participated in the sale of a stolen Smith and Wesson .223 caliber semi-automatic rifle and two rifle magazines containing a total of 39 rounds of .223 caliber ammunition. On that date, EPPS transported the rifle and ammunition to a parking lot in New Haven. He then removed the firearm and ammunition from the trunk of his vehicle and handed the items to another person who, in turn, handed them to the purchaser.
EPPS’ criminal history includes state felony convictions for narcotics distribution and identity theft.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
On February 2, 2018, EPPS pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
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