James Freeman-Neely, a 48-year-old resident of Reading, Pennsylvania, is facing serious charges following his arrest for multiple firearms violations. The Reading Police Department apprehended Freeman-Neely on Saturday, July 13, 2024, for simple assault, and he was subsequently transported to the Berks County Jail where he remains in lieu of bail.
Following his arrest, the victim involved in the assault filed a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order against Freeman-Neely. On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, deputies from the Berks County Sheriff’s Department served the PFA order at the Berks County Jail. This order mandated Freeman-Neely to relinquish all firearms, weapons, and ammunition in his possession. Freeman-Neely signed a document affirming he did not have any such items. However, this declaration proved to be false.
The subsequent investigation by Berks County Sheriff’s Deputies led them to Freeman-Neely’s residence at in the 1100 block of Spruce Street in Reading. There, they discovered a silver and black AR platform rifle, a black and burgundy semi-automatic handgun, and a box of miscellaneous firearm parts. Evidence of weapons manufacturing was also observed, prompting further investigation by Berks County District Attorney Detectives.
Reviewing Freeman-Neely’s criminal history revealed a prior conviction for robbery in March 1999, which legally prohibits him from possessing, using, manufacturing, selling, or transferring firearms. This discovery added weight to the current charges against him.
The search of Freeman-Neely’s residence resulted in the seizure of numerous items, including:
– An invoice for a Ghost Gun Jig for a 5D Tactical multiplatform 80% lower receiver and router jig.
– A blue bag containing various gun parts, including a lower receiver, magazines, ammunition, and AR rifle parts.
– A lower receiver for semi-automatic handguns.
– A box with parts for an AR platform rifle and tools for firearm manufacturing.
– A slide lock lever for a semi-automatic handgun, drill bit, and driver set.
– Invoices and receipts for purchasing gun parts and ammunition.
– Miscellaneous items directly related to firearm manufacturing.
Freeman-Neely has been charged with “Persons Not to Possess, Use, Manufacture, Sell or Transfer Firearms” and “Unsworn Falsification to Authorities.” His bail was set at $50,000, and he remains incarcerated at Berks County Jail.
As in every criminal case, the fact that an arrest occurred or a complaint has been filed is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
