United States Attorney's Office District of Connecticut
Press Release

Project Safe Neighborhoods: HARTFORD MAN CHARGED WITH ILLEGAL FIREARM POSSESSION

David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment today charging DANIEL TORRES, also known as “Danny,” 31, of Preston Street in Hartford, with one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

The indictment alleges that on March 19, 2010, TORRES possessed a .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol.

The indictment also alleges that, prior to March 19, 2010, TORRES had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including sale of hallucinogens or narcotics, sale of a controlled substance, tampering with a witness, and twice for second degree assault.

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.

If convicted, TORRES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.  In addition, TORRES may be subject to the Armed Career Criminal Act, a federal law imposing severe penalties for firearm possession by persons who have been convicted of at least three violent felonies or serious drug offenses.  Under the Armed Career Criminal Act, TORRES could face a minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of life, if he is convicted.

TORRES has been detained on unrelated state charges since June 10, 2010.

U.S. Attorney Fein stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case was investigated by the Hartford Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Freimann.

The Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative is aimed at reducing gun and gang 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