Portland Teen Faces Federal Gun Charges

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 19-year-old Portland resident has pleaded guilty in federal court to making false statements during a gun purchase and possessing a stolen firearm. Investigators say he lied about his identity and later possessed a stolen pistol found in his Windham dorm room. He faces up to 15 years in prison, with sentencing pending.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and illegal firearm possession, especially among young people. It also raises questions about background checks and straw purchases in gun sales, as well as the role of law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting these types of crimes.

The details

According to authorities, the 19-year-old Portland resident lied about his identity when purchasing a firearm. Investigators later found a stolen pistol in his dorm room at a college in Windham. The teen has pleaded guilty to federal charges of making false statements during a gun purchase and possessing a stolen firearm.

• In April, investigators say they found the stolen pistol in the teen's dorm room.
• The teen has pleaded guilty in federal court, with sentencing pending.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the Portland teen out on bail.