A 61-year-old Mishawaka man has been sentenced to prison for dealing in firearms without a license.
James Hanback, 61, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced to 6 months in prison followed by 18 months of supervised release with the first 6 months to be served on home detention.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s office, Hanback purchased about 204 firearms from licensed dealers between January 2021 and the summer of 2025, and he listed about 165 firearms for sale on the internet, though he himself was not a federally licensed firearms dealer.
Investigators executed a search warrant at Hanback’s home after he sold two firearms to an undercover officer, and they recovered 10 more firearms and other documents relating to firearms transactions.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the government to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Hanback made numerous cash deposits totaling more than $98,000 into his bank account.
The unlicensed dealing in firearms charge carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Defendant: James Hanback
Criminal Charges: Unlicensed dealing in firearms
City and State: Mishawaka, IN
Sentencing Date: Not specified
Sentence: 6 months in prison followed by 18 months of supervised release
Dollar Amounts: $98,000
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Category: Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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