PITTSBURGH—A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal laws concerning robbery, use of a firearm, and firearm possession, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 11-count indictment named George Wilson, III.

According to indictment, Wilson committed a series of armed robberies of businesses throughout the Pittsburgh area from November 2014 through December 2014. During that time Wilson committed armed robberies of three stores called “The Exchange” and during one robbery Wilson discharged a firearm. Wilson also committed armed robberies of two Sunoco stations and one Exxon station. Due to a prior conviction for a felony offense, Wilson is prohibited from possessing firearms.

The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 25 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan B. Ortiz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, the Ross Township Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Wilkins Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.