Marshyia S. Ligon, 20, Charged in Straw Purchase of Rifle Used in Attempted Robbery

A Cleveland woman was accused of making a straw purchase of a rifle used in the attempted robbery of a Willoughby credit union, according to federal court documents.

Marshyia S. Ligon, 20, was indicted on one count of making a false statement in the acquisition of a firearm, a charge that carries significant penalties.

According to the indictment, Ligon purchased a Smith & Wesson M&P 15, .556 caliber rifle bearing the serial number TH11301 from Sherwin Shooting Sports in Eastlake on October 4, 2017. The indictment alleges that Ligon falsely stated she was the actual buyer of the rifle when, in fact, she was not.

The firearm was recovered one week later at the Willoughby Eastlake Schools Credit Union, where it was used in an attempt to rob the credit union. The investigation was a joint effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Willoughby Police Department.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Zarzycki. If convicted, Ligon’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including her prior criminal record, her role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.

An indictment is a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Ligon’s indictment is a reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for strict background checks to prevent straw purchases.

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