Baltimore, Maryland – In a stark admission of guilt, Jonathan Drew Bartgis, 26, from Frederick, Maryland, has confessed to federal firearms trafficking and machinegun possession charges. U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes confirmed the guilty plea in a press conference joined by Postal Inspector Damon E. Wood, ATF Special Agent Charles Doerrer, and Frederick Police Chief Jason Lando.
The investigation into Bartgis’s activities began when the USPIS and ATF traced a Telegram channel advertising illegal firearm sales, including conversion devices known as ‘Glock switches’ that transform semi-automatic pistols into automatic weapons.
Postal inspectors zeroed in on a package bound for Frederick. A search warrant led to the recovery of a Glock 23, loaded with 30 rounds, at Bartgis’s address. Further investigation turned up an additional Glock 29, three ‘Glock switches,’ over 400 rounds of ammunition, multiple firearm cases, magazines, parts, and tools. ‘Ghost guns’ – firearms without serial numbers – were also discovered.
Inside Bartgis’s bedroom, authorities found $21,660 in cash and incriminating phone conversations detailing the illegal acquisition and trafficking of firearms. The defendant has a prior felony conviction, making him ineligible to possess firearms or ammunition.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in Maryland. U.S. Attorney Hayes praised the collaborative efforts of the USPIS, ATF, and FPD, along with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Rigney for his role in prosecuting the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office initiatives and community outreach resources, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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- Tyrell Thompson Sentenced to Over 9 Years for Gun & Drug Smuggling in MD · Maryland
Key Facts
- State: Maryland
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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