TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. – A Tarpon Springs man faces up to 15 years in federal prison after a jury found him guilty of possessing ammunition as a convicted felon.
James Patrick Sychowski, 48, was convicted following a trial where evidence revealed a disturbing series of events. On February 7, 2023, Sychowski threatened to kill his mother and her husband at their Tarpon Springs residence while brandishing a loaded AR-15 “ghost gun” he had assembled himself. He also threatened to shoot any responding police officers.
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When Tarpon Springs Police arrived at the scene, Sychowski fled but was later apprehended in Clearwater. Officers discovered the AR-15 ghost gun on his bed, along with the materials and accessories used in its construction.
Further investigation revealed that Sychowski had purchased the components online and had them shipped to his mother’s home.
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Crucially, bank statements and financial records presented during the trial confirmed Sychowski’s purchase of the ghost gun components, as well as 5.56mm ammunition and a magazine from a local firearms store in Holiday, Florida.
Incriminating evidence was also found on Sychowski’s cell phone, including a photograph of the AR-15 ghost gun.
Sychowski’s sentencing hearing is pending.
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