CINCINNATI, OH – Antonio White, 19, is looking at a lengthy federal prison sentence after admitting to trafficking firearms, including a dangerous machinegun, and carrying a pistol near Dohn Community High School. White pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to attempted firearm trafficking, illegal possession of a machinegun, and possession of a firearm in a school zone, a trifecta of gun crimes that paints a picture of brazen disregard for public safety.
The investigation, spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the Cincinnati Police Department, revealed White wasn’t just dealing in standard handguns. Court documents show he peddled a total of 11 firearms, including a particularly alarming item: a machinegun conversion device – commonly known as a “switch” – capable of turning a regular pistol into a fully automatic weapon. One pistol sold to undercover agents in April 2024 was a completely untraceable “ghost gun,” lacking a serial number, making it even harder to track and potentially link to other crimes.
White reportedly believed his customers were planning to traffic the firearms out-of-state, erase serial numbers, and ultimately put them in the hands of gang members. This wasn’t a one-off deal; the evidence suggests a sustained effort to profit from the illegal gun trade. The ATF’s Daryl S. McCormick didn’t mince words, emphasizing the danger posed by individuals like White who prioritize profit over public safety.
Adding to the severity of the charges, White was observed exiting Dohn Community High School on 4th Street in Cincinnati while in possession of a pistol back in April. Carrying a firearm on or near school grounds carries significant penalties, and in this case, it’s compounded by the other serious federal offenses. The proximity to students and faculty clearly heightened the risk and contributed to the gravity of the situation.
White was arrested in May 2024 and has now admitted guilt, paving the way for sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Micheal R. Barrett. U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker announced that White faces up to 15 years in prison for the firearm trafficking and machinegun charges, and an additional five years consecutive to that for the school zone violation – a potential total of 20 years behind bars. Congress sets the maximums, but the judge will consider sentencing guidelines and other factors before handing down the final sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan A. Keefe and Timothy D. Oakley are prosecuting the case. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against illegal firearms trafficking and the ATF’s commitment to disrupting those who seek to arm criminals. Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa A. Theetge applauded the collaborative effort, emphasizing the importance of federal and local law enforcement working together to keep the city’s streets safe. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing.
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