New Haven Man Pleads Guilty To Gun Charges: Feds

NEW HAVEN, CT — A New Haven man recently pleaded guilty to federal gun charges, according to a statement from prosecutors. Chaze Yopp, 27, pleaded guilty today to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to prosecutors, shortly after midnight Jan. 11, Yopp was a passenger in an SUV that sped away from New Haven Police officers who attempted to stop the SUV for multiple motor vehicle infractions.

The SUV ultimately crashed into a light box at the corner of Dixwell Avenue and Bassett Street. Yopp fled from the crash on foot and discarded a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol as he ran through backyards along Dixwell Avenue.

Yopp was arrested on state charges on Jan. 28 and on federal criminal complaint of Feb. 26.

Yopp’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug and firearm offenses.

The charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

Yopp is released on a $25,000 bond pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.