United States Attorney's Office District of Connecticut
Press Release

HARTFORD MAN PLEADS TO ILLEGAL FIREARM POSSESSION

David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DANIEL TORRES, also known as “Danny,” 31, of Preston Street in Hartford, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

According to documents and statements made in court, on March 19, 2010, TORRES possessed a .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol which, after he was arrested, he admitted to firing twice in the air.

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.

Judge Covello has scheduled sentencing for May 3, 2011, at which time TORRES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.

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

This case was investigated by the Hartford Police Department and the 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