Thomas James Clark, 33, of Butler, pleaded guilty in federal court Wednesday, Jan. 14, to possessing a firearm and ammunition despite being a convicted felon.

A news release by First Assistant U.S. District Attorney Troy Rivetti said Clark was arrested on Jan. 20, 2024, regarding aggravated assault charges. When approached by police, he dropped his belongings, including an AR 15-style rifle with no serial number, a revolver and dozens of rounds of ammunition, the release said.

Clark was previously convicted of methamphetamine production and criminal conspiracy in Butler County Common Court, and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Clark is facing a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. His sentencing is scheduled for May 13 in front of U.S. District Judge W. Scott Hardy.