Pennsylvania Man Indicted for Stolen Firearm Possession
A federal grand jury charged a 23-year-old Lycoming County resident for illegal firearm possession.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Crime — General
A 23-year-old man from Lycoming County has been indicted by a federal grand jury for possessing a stolen handgun and ammunition. The charges follow an encounter with law enforcement in which it was discovered he was prohibited from owning firearms due to a prior felony conviction.
Why it matters
Federal authorities maintain strict oversight of individuals with previous felony convictions to prevent unauthorized access to weapons. This case highlights the legal consequences for prohibited persons found in possession of firearms in Pennsylvania.
A federal grand jury returned the indictment for possession of a stolen firearm and ammunition, with a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Berti.
The players
Raymond Poust Jr.
He is a 23-year-old Hughesville resident currently indicted on federal firearm charges.
Pennsylvania State Police
This is the state-level law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining safety and responding to criminal incidents across Pennsylvania.
FBI Philadelphia Capital Area Resident Agency
This federal agency is the division responsible for leading the investigation into the stolen firearm case.
Luisa Berti
She serves as an Assistant U.S. Attorney responsible for prosecuting federal criminal cases.
The details
Pennsylvania State Police and the Fugitive Tracking Unit encountered 23-year-old Raymond Poust Jr. in Lycoming County. Poust is currently facing federal charges in the Middle District of Pennsylvania for possessing a weapon he was legally prohibited from owning.
Timeline
June 30, 2026: Police encountered Poust and recovered a stolen handgun.
September 30, 2026: The federal indictment was officially announced.
Legal Context
This case follows established federal statutes that bar convicted felons from owning firearms. It reflects broader efforts by the U.S. Department of Justice to address illegal weapon possession within regional jurisdictions.
The involvement of the Fugitive Tracking Unit in this arrest underscores active regional efforts to remove prohibited weapons from local neighborhoods. Residents in Lycoming County may see continued law enforcement presence as the federal investigation proceeds through the courts.
The takeaway
Illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries severe federal consequences, including long-term imprisonment. Citizens should remain aware that local law enforcement agencies frequently collaborate with federal partners to enforce these specific legal restrictions.
Further reading
For more on criminal proceedings in the state, visit Crime — General.
