MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – In a shocking case of firearms trafficking, two Hagerstown residents were sentenced for their roles in a firearms conspiracy. The case, which took place in Berkeley County, has left law enforcement officials reeling.
The first defendant, Dwayne Anthony Battle, was sentenced to five years probation. Battle, 37, pleaded guilty in May to one count of ‘Conspiracy to Violate Gun Control Act.’ Battle admitted to working with Antoinette Pauleen McKenzie to illegally purchase firearms in Berkeley County and transfer those firearms to an out-of-state resident, violating the Gun Control Act. The conspiracy took place in August and September 2021.
Battle, a resident of Hagerstown, Maryland, was found guilty of conspiring with McKenzie to purchase firearms illegally. The case has sparked concerns about firearms trafficking in the region.
The second defendant, Antoinette Pauleen McKenzie, was sentenced to five years probation after pleading guilty in May 2022 to one count of ‘False Statement During Purchase of Firearm.’ McKenzie admitted to lying to the licensed gun dealer, saying she was the true purchaser of the firearm, when the 9mm pistol was meant for someone else in August 2021 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor F. Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided over the case. The sentencing has brought closure to the case, but it has also raised concerns about firearms trafficking in the region.
Battle’s sentence of five years probation is a significant blow to the community, as it highlights the seriousness of firearms trafficking. The case serves as a warning to those who would engage in similar activities.
McKenzie’s sentence of five years probation is also a significant blow, as it highlights the importance of honesty during the purchase of firearms.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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