The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has indicted Hazleton resident Renan Tineo on several federal firearms charges. The indictment, which was returned by a federal grand jury, alleges the 22-year-old Tineo committed numerous offenses, including domestic violence and the unauthorized possession of a .38 caliber pistol. If convicted, Tineo faces up to 15 years in prison, a fine, and an additional term of post-release supervision by federal authorities.

Have you been arrested on firearms or domestic violence charges? No matter whether you are being charged in federal or state court, a guilty verdict could cost you more than just your freedom. Your right to possess firearms, or your ability to secure gainful employment, may hinge on the verdict in your case. Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or contact us online and get the quality legal representation you deserve!

Suspect Was Under Domestic Violence Restraining Order

Tineo's arrest was the result of a cooperative effort by multiple agencies, including the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Luzerne County District Attorney's office. According to the indictment, Tineo's own conduct led to him being charged with federal offenses. First, he was subject to a restraining order in connection with a domestic violence allegation.

Anyone subject to domestic violence-related restraining orders is prohibited from possessing firearms for as long as the order is in effect. The indictment also claims that the .38 caliber Charter Arms pistol Tineo was found in possession of had the serial numbers removed. Assistant United States Attorney James Buchannan will represent the government in the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

PSN is a coordinated program led by the United States Justice Department. The program aims to increase community safety and reduce gun violence by establishing a collaborative working relationship at all levels of law enforcement. One of the program's missions is to stop gun violence before it occurs. It prioritizes getting firearms out of the hands of potentially dangerous people. People subject to domestic violence restraining orders like Tineo meet PSN's criteria for targeted enforcement.

Domestic Violence and Firearms Charges Defense

Successfully prosecuting domestic violence cases is a priority for law enforcement due to the potential for tragedy that exists when violence occurs in the home or between partners. There is a long history of domestic violence suspects using firearms to further antagonize or do permanent harm to the complaining party. This has led to overlapping laws where domestic violence suspects can be charged at the federal or state level.

That makes it critical for anyone (especially firearm owners) suspected of domestic violence to have legal counsel with the experience and resources to fight cases in either jurisdiction or both at the same time. Don't take chances with your freedom or 2^nd amendment rights. Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or contact us online today!