Newington Man Admits Stealing Firearms From Colebrook Residence

David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL KENNEDY, also known as “Chavo,” 25, of Newington, pleaded guilty today before United States Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford to one count of possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 9, 2011, KENNEDY and Edward N. Ortiz, also known as “Heavy,” of New Britain, entered a residence in Colebrook and stole 12 firearms.  The investigation has revealed that the majority of the stolen firearms were later sold to others, including street-level drug dealers.

Prior to May 2011, KENNEDY had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including possession of narcotics, robbery, larceny and violation of a protection order.

It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

KENNEDY is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on April 30, 2013, at which time KENNEDY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,00.

KENNEDY is currently detained in state custody on unrelated charges.

On September 27, 2012, Ortiz pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to steal firearms and possess stolen firearms, and one count of possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon.  He awaits sentencing and is also detained.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Connecticut State Police and the New Britain Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Freimann.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:

U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722
thomas.carson@usdoj.gov