ERIE, Pa. – A Franklin, Pennsylvania resident was sentenced to 40 months in prison for violating federal firearms laws. United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced the sentencing, which took place in federal court on January 18.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on 40-year-old Phillip John Dechant. The court was informed that on or around April 22, 2020, Dechant was in possession of numerous firearms despite being a convicted felon. Federal law strictly prohibits felons from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold represented the government in prosecuting this case. United States Attorney Olshan acknowledged the crucial role of the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the investigation that led to Dechant’s successful prosecution.