Allegheny Co. now posting mugshots, descriptions online

The Allegheny County Sheriff's Office has a new website to help track down people facing gun charges.

The reality is many of the crimes we cover involve guns the shooter isn't allowed to have.

That's why the Sheriff's Office started a feature to get those using guns illegally off the streets before they commit a more dangerous crime.

The layout is similar to a most wanted list.

But the one thing these folks have in common is they're all wanted for gun crimes.

"We want to showcase the dangerous criminals,” said Chief Deputy Kevin Kraus.

More than 50 people wanted for gun crimes in Allegheny County are now prominently featured on the Sheriff’s Office’s website.

It's a concern since many crimes are committed by felons who are not permitted to have a gun.

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Chief Deputy Kevin Kraus tells Channel 11 they've already seen success alerting residents and arresting fugitives.

"If we get information and they are wanted on a warrant, that certainly gives us a step up in taking these individuals off of the street potentially before they commit a violent crime," Kraus said.

But defense attorney and Channel 11 legal analyst Phil DiLucente sees things differently.

"It does surprise me a tad that it would be for minor offenses as long as they involve a weapon,” DiLucente said. “At the same time, I understand that public welfare and public safety is very pressing issue."

Right now more than 50 names and mugshots are on the list, which you can find by clicking here:

Cox Media Group