Two men formerly of Duquesne pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday in connection with an illegal gun purchase, according to U.S. Attorney Scott Brady.

Melvin Bowles, 24, asked Khalil Armstrong, 26, on Feb. 8, 2018, to purchase a gun for him because Bowles is prohibited as a convicted felon from purchasing and owning firearms, according to federal investigators. Bowles purchased a gun in Pittsburgh and transferred it to Armstrong.

A week later, federal authorities searched Bowles’ home and found the weapon and ammunition. Armstrong admitted as part of his plea to purchasing 23 guns and transferring them to Bowles and others, according to a news release.

He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements, making a false statement to acquire a firearm and making false statements to a licensed firearms dealer. Bowles pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements and unlawful possession of a gun and ammunition.

Sentencing for both is scheduled for Aug. 12.

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