Marsh Sisters, Straw Purchasing, Texas 2023

Teenager's Life Cut Short in Dallas Homicide

On April 18, a senseless act of violence shook the community in Dallas, Texas. A teenage boy, along with a co-conspirator, attempted to rob a man in the driveway of his home. The struggle ended in tragedy when the juvenile fired a single shot, killing Leonardo Vazquez-Barcenas, the victim's brother.

According to authorities, the gun used in the homicide was purchased by sisters Demoushae and Tashonna Marsh just two days prior at Academy Sports + Outdoors, a federally-licensed firearm dealer. In their applications, both women falsely claimed to be the 'actual buyer' of the firearm, knowing it was intended for someone else.

The Marsh sisters, Demoushae and Tashonna, appeared in federal court on charges of making false statements during the acquisition of a firearm. This case is being prosecuted as part of the U.S. Attorney's 'Project Safe Neighborhood' initiative, a strategic effort targeting violent offenders in Dallas' most dangerous neighborhoods.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation with assistance from the Dallas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney P.J. Meitl is handling the case.

U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox stated, 'Federal firearm restrictions are designed to keep deadly weapons from being used in street crimes like these.' She emphasized that this case should serve as a warning to would-be straw purchasers across north Texas: 'We will bring to justice anyone who attempts to circumvent gun laws in our district.'

Demoushae and Tashonna Marsh are facing federal charges for their alleged role in the straw purchasing scheme. Their exact sentence or outcome has yet to be determined.

The Dallas County District Attorney's Office is handling the homicide case related to the use of the firearm. The ATF and Dallas Police Department worked together to bring the Marsh sisters to justice.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx/pr/feds-charge-straw-purchasers-psn-neighborhood-gun-used-homicide