Defending Federal Firearm Charges in the District of Connecticut: Understanding 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and Why Matthew Galluzzo Is an Exceptional Defense Attorney

Federal firearm cases are prosecuted aggressively in the District of Connecticut, particularly those involving alleged violations of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) — the federal “felon in possession” statute. A conviction under § 922(g) can lead to years in federal prison, significant fines, and the permanent loss of firearm rights.

If you’ve been charged under § 922(g) or are under investigation for possessing a firearm when you are allegedly prohibited from doing so, it’s critical to retain an experienced federal defense attorney immediately. Matthew Galluzzo, a seasoned federal criminal lawyer and former prosecutor, has the experience, skill, and judgment necessary to defend against these serious allegations.

What Is 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)?

Section 922(g) of Title 18 of the United States Code makes it a federal offense for certain individuals to possess a firearm or ammunition that has traveled in or affected interstate commerce.

The statute prohibits possession by anyone who falls into one of several restricted categories, including:

• Convicted felons (individuals convicted of crimes punishable by more than one year in prison);
• Fugitives from justice;
• Unlawful users of controlled substances;
• Individuals subject to qualifying domestic-violence restraining orders;
• Individuals convicted of misdemeanor domestic-violence offenses;
• Undocumented noncitizens or certain nonimmigrant visa holders;
• Individuals previously dishonorably discharged from the military.

Even temporary or unintentional possession of a firearm or ammunition can trigger prosecution under § 922(g), and the law applies even if the gun never left your home. The “interstate commerce” element is easily met because nearly all firearms are manufactured in one state and sold in another.

Penalties for Violating 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)

A conviction for unlawful possession of a firearm under § 922(g) carries severe penalties:

• Up to 10 years in federal prison and substantial fines;
• If you have three or more prior qualifying violent felony or serious drug convictions, you may face a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years to life under the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA);
• No parole in the federal system — meaning you serve nearly the entire sentence imposed.

In addition to imprisonment, a conviction can lead to:

• Permanent loss of firearm rights;
• Probation or supervised release conditions restricting travel and association;
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens;
• Loss of employment, security clearance, or professional licensure.

How § 922(g) Cases Are Prosecuted in the District of Connecticut

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut, working alongside federal agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and FBI, regularly brings § 922(g) prosecutions as part of initiatives targeting gun violence and illegal firearm possession in cities like Bridgeport, Hartford, and New Haven.

These cases often arise from:

• Traffic stops or searches where a firearm is discovered;
• Domestic incidents involving allegations of weapon possession;
• Drug investigations that uncover firearms;
• Information sharing between state and federal agencies under “Project Safe Neighborhoods.”

Federal prosecutors in Connecticut pursue these charges aggressively, often seeking stiff prison terms to deter firearm possession by prohibited individuals.

Defending a § 922(g) Charge

A strong defense begins with identifying constitutional, factual, or legal weaknesses in the government’s case. Common defense strategies include:

1. Challenging the Search or Seizure

If the firearm was found during an illegal search or traffic stop, your attorney can file a motion to suppress evidence under the Fourth Amendment. Many § 922(g) cases hinge entirely on whether law enforcement acted lawfully in obtaining the gun.

2. Disputing “Knowing Possession”

The prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed the firearm or ammunition. If the gun was not found on your person, or if it belonged to someone else, that element may not be satisfied.

3. Questioning the Predicate Conviction or Prohibited Status

Recent Supreme Court decisions — such as Rehaif v. United States (2019) — require prosecutors to prove not only that you possessed a firearm, but also that you knew you were prohibited from possessing one. This ruling has led to numerous dismissals and reversals of § 922(g) convictions nationwide.

4. Negotiating for Reduced Charges or Alternative Resolutions

In some cases, an experienced defense attorney can negotiate a plea to a lesser offense or secure a non-incarceratory sentence depending on your background, cooperation, and mitigating circumstances.

Why Matthew Galluzzo Is an Excellent Choice to Defend § 922(g) Charges in Connecticut

Matthew Galluzzo is a respected criminal defense attorney and former Manhattan prosecutor who regularly defends individuals facing federal firearm, drug, and conspiracy charges in the District of Connecticut and neighboring federal courts.

Here’s why he is an outstanding choice for defending a § 922(g) case:

• Extensive Federal Experience: Matthew has defended numerous clients in federal prosecutions involving firearms, narcotics, and violent crimes. He knows the procedures, strategies, and personalities of federal prosecutors and judges in Connecticut.
• Former Prosecutor’s Insight: Having served as an Assistant District Attorney in Manhattan, he understands how prosecutors think — allowing him to anticipate arguments, identify weaknesses, and exploit overreach.
• Deep Knowledge of Firearm Law: Matthew closely follows federal appellate decisions interpreting § 922(g), including Rehaif, Bruen, and other Second Amendment jurisprudence, giving his clients cutting-edge legal defenses.
• Aggressive and Strategic Advocacy: Whether negotiating a favorable plea or preparing for trial, he builds cases meticulously, challenging every aspect of the government’s evidence.
• Client-Focused Representation: Matthew treats every client with respect, candor, and commitment. He knows the anxiety of facing federal charges and provides clear communication and compassionate guidance at every step.

The Bottom Line

A charge under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) in the District of Connecticut is serious and potentially life-altering. Federal prosecutors and judges take firearm offenses very seriously, and the penalties can be devastating.

However, with a skilled and experienced defense attorney like Matthew Galluzzo, you can fight back effectively — challenging the evidence, safeguarding your rights, and pursuing every available strategy to protect your freedom and your future.

Contact Information

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal firearm offense — including 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) — contact Matthew Galluzzo immediately for a confidential consultation. Early legal intervention is essential to building a strong defense and minimizing your risk.