Related Federal Cases
- Gilbert John, Jr., Kidnapping and Murder, New Mexico 2019 · Puerto Rico
- Devonte Okeith Mathis, Marijuana Trafficking and Aiding Gun Use, Texas 2021 · Texas
- Roberto Minuta, Seditious Conspiracy and Obstruction of Official Proceeding, Texas 2021 · Hawaii
- Devonte Okeith Mathis, Marijuana Conspiracy, Texas 2021 · Arizona
- Dustin Ray Williams, Obstruction of Law Enforcement During Civil Disorder, Texas 2021 · District of Columbia
Gunrunner Brought Down in Houston
A federal jury has delivered a guilty verdict against Karina Deluna, 37, for her role in a firearms straw purchasing scheme in Houston, Texas.
Deluna, a woman with ties to the Houston area, was found guilty on one count of conspiracy and seven counts of making false statements to licensed firearms dealers.
The jury’s verdict came after a four-day trial, during which they heard testimony about Deluna’s involvement in straw purchasing at least 13 firearms, including multiple AR-15 style rifles, 9 mm handguns, and a .50-caliber rifle.
The investigation revealed that Deluna’s co-conspirators intended to export the illegally obtained firearms to Mexico. On August 11, 2022, law enforcement discovered that conspirators were picking up a straw-purchased Barrett, .50-caliber rifle from a federal firearms licensee in Houston. Authorities quickly responded and seized the $9,000 firearm from Deluna and others.
Deluna faces up to 40 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. She was previously released on bond but was taken into custody following the guilty verdicts and will remain pending sentencing on November 19.
The case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation with the support of Homeland Security Investigations and the departments of Commerce and State. ATF Mexico provided substantial assistance in recovering some of the straw-purchased weapons.
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Violent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent Crime