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Luzerne County Residents Embroiled in Firearms Straw Purchases Scandal
A coordinated investigation between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kingston Police Department has led to the arrest of three Luzerne County residents on charges of firearms straw purchases and cocaine distribution.
According to investigators, Jovon Martin, a 31-year-old Kingston resident, was found to have been involved in a conspiracy to make false statements in connection with the purchase of a firearm, as well as possession of a machine gun in furtherance of drug distribution, and possession with intent to deliver cocaine. The offenses allegedly occurred between March 2012 and March 2013 in Luzerne County.
Straw purchases, which involve individuals who are unable to purchase a firearm utilizing others who do not have a criminal record to make the purchase in their name and then transferring the firearm to the prohibited possessor, are a serious crime with severe consequences. The investigation also uncovered cocaine distribution closely related to the straw purchases.
Martin faces a mandatory minimum of 30 years’ imprisonment, while co-defendants Christine Hanahan and John Teslicko face a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment. All three face a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amy C. Phillips. The defendants were arraigned before Magistrate Judge Thomas Blewitt and Martin was ordered detained pending trial on May 20, 2013.
The investigation that led to the arrests was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kingston Police Department. The case serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of firearms straw purchases and cocaine distribution, and the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in preventing these crimes.
As the case moves forward, the community can rest assured that justice will be served. The defendants will have the opportunity to present their side of the story in court, but for now, they face serious charges that could land them in prison for decades to come.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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