United States Attorney's Office District of Connecticut
Press Release

Project Safe Neighborhoods: NEW HAVEN MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FEDERAL FIREARMS CHARGE

Kevin J. O’Connor, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MAURICE VonBRITTON, 27, of New Haven, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before Senior United States District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to being a previously convicted felon in knowing possession of a firearm.  VonBRITTON currently is in state custody serving a sentence on an unrelated state conviction.

According to documents filed with the Court and statements made in court, in October 2007, VonBRITTON knowingly possessed a .40 caliber handgun, which he then sold to another individual, along with a bullet proof vest.  Prior to October 2007, VonBRITTON was convicted in state court of four different felony offenses, specifically carrying a pistol without a permit, third degree larceny, first degree failure to appear and possession of narcotics.

It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Covello has scheduled sentencing for June 3, 2008, at which time VonBRITTON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert M. Spector.

The Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative is aimed at reducing gun violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, and improving the safety of residents of Connecticut’s cities. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

CONTACT:

U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722
thomas.carson@usdoj.gov