A Maryland resident has admitted to participating in an illegal firearms trafficking scheme that spanned state lines, with authorities confirming the weapons were funneled out of West Virginia for use elsewhere.
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Donaven Eugene Simms, 22, of Hagerstown, Maryland, pleaded guilty in a federal court in Martinsburg, West Virginia, to aiding and abetting the falsification of information during the purchase of a firearm. Prosecutors stated that Simms worked in coordination with others to acquire guns in Berkeley County, which were later transferred to individuals in states outside West Virginia. The case highlights concerns over so-called “straw purchases,” where individuals buy firearms on behalf of others who may not be legally permitted to own them.
The offense carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will take into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other applicable legal considerations. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation into the trafficking network.
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The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane. U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided over the plea proceedings in federal court. Authorities have not disclosed how many weapons were involved or the intended recipients in other states, but emphasized that investigations into related defendants are ongoing.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from a press release issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia
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