David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury sitting in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging NESTOR PAGAN, 29, of New London, with one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

The indictment alleges that on December 2, 2012, PAGAN illegally possessed a .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol that had an obliterated serial number.

According to court documents and statements made in court, PAGAN was initially arrested on state charges after the firearm was discovered in his jacket pocket during a motor vehicle stop by Norwich Police.

The indictment further alleges that PAGAN has previously been convicted in Connecticut Superior Court of first and second degree assault, criminal weapon possession, sale of hallucinogen/narcotics, and criminal mischief.

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.

PAGAN was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on December 13, 2012.  He is currently detained.

The charge of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and the charge of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.  However, PAGAN may be subject to the Armed Career Criminal Act, a federal law imposing severe penalties for firearm or ammunition possession by persons who have been convicted of at least three violent felonies or serious drug offenses.  If PAGAN qualifies as an Armed Career Criminal, he faces a minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of life.

U.S. Attorney Fein stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which it is the Government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New London Police Department and the Norwich Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alina Reynolds and Sarah Karwan.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:

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

 

 

Return to Top