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Beard Gets 41 Months for Flood of Illegal Guns
INDIANAPOLIS – William Beard, 58, of Columbus, Indiana, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced to 41 months for Unlicensed Firearms Dealing and Falsification of Records in Bankruptcy. The sentence, handed down today by United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler, marks a significant blow against a man who systematically pumped hundreds of guns into the shadowy world of illegal firearms.
“Beard’s illegal activities introduced hundreds of firearms into the underground gun economy,” Minkler stated bluntly. “At least twenty three of those guns were recovered from crime scenes in Indianapolis neighborhoods. This office will continue to investigate, arrest and prosecute those who illegally put guns on the streets of our district. Mr. Beard found that out today.” The case underscores the office’s commitment to tackling violent crime fueled by illegal gun trafficking, a key component of their Strategic Plan.
Between early 2013 and October 2017, Beard operated as a ghost, buying and selling over 320 firearms without a license. He reaped a substantial profit, circumventing all legal requirements. He wasn’t just making a few extra bucks; this was a calculated, sustained operation. Beard engaged in “multiple sale” transactions, snapping up firearms in quick succession, then offloading them at gun shows and other locations across Indiana. Crucially, he skipped the background checks and ATF paperwork that legitimate dealers are required to complete.
The consequences of Beard’s actions were chillingly clear: 23 of the firearms he sold or traded surfaced at crime scenes, linked to incidents ranging from armed robberies to drug raids. Roland Herndon, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division, didn’t mince words. “Selling firearms illegally is just as much a crime as using them illegally,” he said. “By diverting firearms from legal to illegal commerce, by helping certain individuals avoid records and background checks, Beard is responsible for fueling violence in our community.”
But the fraud didn’t stop at firearms. On June 18, 2018, Beard filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, conveniently omitting any mention of the income he’d generated from his illicit gun sales. He also failed to disclose his pending criminal indictment, a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice and mislead the court. Assistant United States Attorneys Kendra Klump and Amanda Kester built a solid case, demonstrating the full scope of Beard’s deceit.
In addition to the 41-month prison sentence, Beard will serve 2 years of supervised release. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, sending a clear message that those who prioritize profit over public safety will face the full weight of the law. Beard’s days of supplying the streets with illegal weapons are over, but the fight to stem the flow of guns to criminals continues.
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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