A Newton resident, James Welch, 29, faces charges in federal court for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. He was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, according to a criminal complaint filed in Boston. Welch is scheduled to appear in federal court at a later date.
The charging documents reveal that during a search of Welch's residence on February 28, 2025, authorities recovered two firearms—a pistol and a rifle—along with ammunition. Due to previous felony convictions, Welch is prohibited from possessing such items.
If convicted, the charge of possessing ammunition after being convicted of a felony could result in up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Leah Foley and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives' Boston Field Division. The Newton Police Department assisted significantly with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric L. Hawkins from the Major Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
It is important to note that the details provided are allegations. Under law, Welch remains innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.