News Release
U.S. Department of Justice
Peter F. Neronha
United States Attorney
District of Rhode Island

November 23, 2011

'Hanover Boyz' Gang Member Sentenced to Federal Prison

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Providence man identified as an active member of the ‘Hanover Boyz’ street gang was sentenced Tuesday to 57 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Vesna Puth, 34, of Providence, was also sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William E. Smith to 3 years of supervised release to be served upon completion of his imprisonment.

Puth’s sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Peter F. Neronha and Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven M. Pare.

According to information presented to the court, in March 2011, two Providence bike patrol officers approached Puth after they recognized him and knew that there was an outstanding warrant for him. When confronted by the officers and asked if he had anything on him, Puth told officers “I have a burner.”  Police arrested Puth after they seized a loaded.22 caliber pistol from his person.

Puth, who has been detained since his arrest, pled guilty before Judge Smith on June 28, 2011.

Puth was previously convicted on state felony charges resulting in state prison sentences of more than one year.   

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard W. Rose.

The matter was investigated by the Providence Police Department with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

 

Contact: 401-709-5357
USARI.Media@usdoj.gov