Georgia Man Dares Gun Dealers: ‘I’m Not a Threat, Liar!’

Jacksonville, Florida – In a brazen attempt to purchase a firearm, 45-year-old Donald Plemmons of Clyo, Georgia, has pleaded guilty to making a false statement and representation to a federally licensed firearms dealer, committing a federal crime that carries a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison.

Plemmons’ reckless decision will likely come with a hefty price tag, as he faces a maximum of five years behind bars. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled, but one thing is clear: Plemmons will have to live with the consequences of his actions.

According to court records, in March 2023, Plemmons attempted to purchase a firearm from a federally licensed dealer. During the process, he completed an ATF Form 4473, which is designed to ensure that firearms are not sold to individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others. On the form, Plemmons claimed that he was not subject to a protective order restraining him from harassing, stalking, or threatening a child or an intimate partner or child of such partner. But the truth is far more sinister.

Records show that in January 2023, Plemmons was subject to a court order from the Superior Court for Effingham County, Georgia, which explicitly restrained him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or their family. By signing the ATF Form 4473 with a false statement, Plemmons demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law and a reckless disregard for public safety.

This case is a stark reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for honest communication when attempting to purchase a firearm. The fact that Plemmons felt emboldened to lie on a firearms form is a disturbing trend that law enforcement agencies and gun dealers must take seriously.

The investigation into Plemmons’ crime was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta is leading the prosecution of this case, which is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence by fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, and setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities.