Prison Plot: Inmate Used Oregon Woman to Buy Guns

Anchorage inmate Dominique Kyle James Swain, already facing a rap sheet, is now accused of running a gun-buying scheme from inside the state’s correctional facilities. Swain allegedly strong-armed Abigail Corinne Elaine Sturdevant, an Oregon woman, into purchasing firearms on his behalf, effectively using her as a proxy to skirt federal gun laws. The feds say this wasn’t a one-off; Swain allegedly directed Sturdevant to buy multiple firearms.

The scheme unraveled after Swain’s January 2022 arrest in Oregon for violating the terms of his supervised release following a previous federal conviction in Alaska. A convicted felon isn’t allowed to so much as look at a firearm, let alone possess or acquire one. That initial bust led investigators down a darker path – revealing the alleged gun-buying plot orchestrated from behind bars.

According to the indictment, Swain didn’t just ask Sturdevant to buy the guns; he told her what to buy. She then allegedly made the purchases, falsely certifying she was the actual buyer. The feds allege she knew full well the firearms were intended for Swain, making both of them culpable in a classic “straw purchase” conspiracy. This isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about getting guns into the hands of someone legally barred from having them.

Swain now faces two separate federal charges: conspiracy to straw purchase firearms and being a felon in possession of firearms. The latter carries significant weight, as federal prosecutors are keen to make an example of those who attempt to circumvent gun laws. Sturdevant is also charged with conspiracy, and both could face up to 15 years in the slammer if convicted. Don’t expect a plea bargain, either. The feds are building a solid case.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation, with crucial support from the FBI and the Eugene Police Department. The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a federal program designed to target violent crime hotspots and the individuals driving the violence. Expect more arrests related to this case as investigators untangle the full network involved.

U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker, speaking through his office, emphasized the seriousness of the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Tran is handling the prosecution. While Swain and Sturdevant are presumed innocent until proven guilty, the evidence presented to the grand jury suggests a calculated attempt to arm a convicted felon. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact E. Bryan Wilson at Bryan.Wilson@usdoj.gov.