CHICAGO — Johnathan Burgos, the notorious ‘Chicago Gun King,’ has been sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison for his brazen illegal firearms dealing. The 33-year-old was caught red-handed selling 14 guns and multiple high-capacity magazines, some of which were stolen, during a yearlong FBI sting.
Burgos, who was on parole or bond with an electronic tether from the Illinois Department of Corrections for firearm-related state cases, has been slapped with a 16-year-and-eight-month sentence by U.S. District Judge Steven C. Seeger. The grim tally was announced on Aug. 15, 2025, by United States Attorney Andrew S. Boutros and joined by FBI Special Agent-in-Charge Douglas S. DePodesta and Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Mower summed up the gravity of Burgos’ crime in the government’s sentencing memorandum, stating, ‘Defendant’s gun trafficking posed a severe danger to the community.’ The defendant personally orchestrated each sale, utilizing coded language in phone calls and text messages to cloak his illegal activities.
Burgos pleaded guilty earlier this year to federal firearm charges. His illegal activity was so extensive that it spanned several stolen handguns, a weapon with an obliterated serial number, and a rifle. The court documents reveal the extent of Burgos’ criminal enterprise, which was meticulously documented through meticulous FBI surveillance.
Despite his legal woes, Burgos remained a constant threat to public safety throughout the transactions. His actions serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal firearms trafficking in Chicago and across the nation. The sentence handed down is a significant victory for law enforcement and a testament to their relentless pursuit of justice.
The case against Burgos has once again highlighted the ongoing crisis of gun violence in our city. It’s a stark reminder that when it comes to illegal arms dealing, no one is above the law. As Chicago struggles with this epidemic, the sentence imposed on Burgos sends a powerful message: if you deal firearms illegally, you will be held accountable.
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Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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