DC Man Gets 3.5 Years for Gun Smuggling Ring

BECKLEY, W.Va. – In a chilling turn of events, Nicholas Loukas, 31, from the District of Columbia, was today sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison for orchestrating a sophisticated gun smuggling ring. United States Attorney Carol Casto announced the sentence, which comes as a stern message against firearm trafficking.

Loukas, who previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements on records kept by licensed firearms dealers, admitted his involvement. In September 2015, he directed individuals to purchase firearms in his name. However, instead of Loukas’ name being listed, the buyers submitted their own names on the required forms.

The deceit didn’t stop there. Loukas, through this scheme, had four handguns purchased for him at Shooter’s Roost in Beckley and another handgun procured by an individual from J & S Pawn in Beckley. As if that wasn’t enough, law enforcement recovered a further handgun and a shotgun during the investigation that Loukas unlawfully possessed.

Loukas’ 2002 robbery conviction in Maryland rendered him prohibited from owning firearms under federal law. Yet, he continued to flout these regulations with his illegal activities.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the thorough investigation that led to Loukas’ conviction. Assistant United States Attorney John File was instrumental in the prosecution, while United States District Judge Irene C. Berger handed down the sentence.

This case is a testament to Project Safe Neighborhoods’ efforts to combat gun crime across the nation. Loukas’ sentence underscores the commitment to working with local programs that target firearm-related offenses.

RELATED: The Art and Science of Low-Light Drone Operations: LiDAR or Camera?

RELATED: Springfield Dealer Gets 15 Years for Illegal Firearm