Red Lodge Man Pleads Guilty After Federal Agents Find Privately Made Firearms

A Red Lodge man has admitted to illegally possessing firearms after federal investigators say they found a cache of privately manufactured weapons and related equipment inside his home.

Red Lodge Search Uncovered Privately Made Firearms

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Montana, 76-year-old James Faddis Kennedy pleaded guilty to one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm.

Court documents state that investigators searched Kennedy's Red Lodge home on Jan. 21, 2026, after obtaining a search warrant. The search was prompted by concerns that Kennedy may have violated the terms of his release following a previous conviction for possessing an unregistered firearm.

During the search, law enforcement reported finding numerous firearms, suppressors, ammunition, and tools believed to have been used to manufacture privately made firearms.

Previous Conviction Led to Federal Investigation

Federal prosecutors say Kennedy was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his prior conviction. Investigators allege the firearms discovered during the January search were privately manufactured, sometimes referred to as "ghost guns," along with equipment used to produce them.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.

Get our free mobile app

Sentencing Scheduled for a Later Date

Kennedy entered his guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. He remains in federal custody while awaiting sentencing.

The case will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kathleen S. Lane at a later date. Under federal law, Kennedy faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment. Final sentencing will be determined after the court considers the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors required by law.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case.