A Newton resident, James Welch, has pleaded guilty in a Boston federal court to charges related to illegal firearm possession. The 29-year-old admitted to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper has set his sentencing for September 11, 2025. Welch was initially charged in February of this year.
Authorities conducted a search at Welch’s residence on February 28, 2025, where they discovered a pistol, a rifle, and ammunition. Due to previous felony convictions, Welch is barred from owning firearms and ammunition.
The charge for possessing ammunition after a felony conviction can result in up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by the federal district court judge following U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes.
United States Attorney Leah Foley and Scott Riordan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ Boston Field Division announced the plea today. The Newton Police Department played an essential role in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric L. Hawkins from the Major Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
