Mark Mann, Unregistered Destructive Device, Georgia 2017

Macon, Georgia – In a stunning blow to the local firearms community, Mark Mann, owner and operator of Mann’s World, LLC d/b/a The Rifleman, was convicted of illegal possession of a destructive device, a Finnish Lahti 20mm anti-tank rifle, on April 6, 2017.

The evidence presented in court showed that Mann was the owner of Mann’s World, LLC d/b/a The Rifleman, a local gun dealership. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) received a referral from the previous owner of the anti-tank rifle that Mann illegally possessed the weapon after two checks from Mann’s business account, issued to purchase the weapon, were returned for insufficient funds.

A search warrant was executed on December 30, 2014, resulting in the discovery and seizure of the gun. The evidence revealed that Mann had used his status as a firearms dealer to circumvent the law by not registering the destructive device with the ATF.

As a Federal Firearms Licensee, Mann was trusted to know and follow the law regarding firearms, especially when dealing with dangerous instrumentalities such as the anti-tank rifle. However, Mann chose to violate that trust and now must bear the responsibility for that choice.

Mark Mann will be sentenced in approximately 60 days. He faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

The case was investigated by the Industry Operations Investigators and the Criminal Enforcement Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly S. Easterling and Michael T. Solis prosecuted the case for the Government.

Questions concerning this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 752-3511.

Mandatory Facts:

Defendant: Mark Mann
Criminal Charges: Illegal possession of a destructive device
City and State: Macon, Georgia
Exact Date: April 6, 2017
Sentence or Outcome: Sentencing in approximately 60 days; faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine