Michael John Pellicione, Failing to Keep Proper Records of Sales, Florida 2024

MIAMI – In a shocking turn of events, Michael John Pellicione, 76, the owner of a Port St. Lucie, Fla., gun shop, pleaded guilty to selling several firearms ‘off the books’ in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(5).

Pellicione, a federal firearms licensee (FFL), failed to enter the sale of five firearms into his acquisition and disposition (A&D) record, as required by federal law.

According to the indictment, Pellicione’s gun shop operated out of his residence, and he sold several firearms to individuals without properly recording the transactions. This is a serious offense, as federal law requires FFLs to maintain accurate records of all firearms sales and transfers.

The A&D book is a crucial document that tracks the movement of firearms, including their type, make, model, caliber, and serial number, as well as the date and from whom the firearm was received and the person to whom it was sold or transferred.

Pellicione’s actions have serious consequences, as he now faces up to five years’ imprisonment at sentencing. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The investigation into Pellicione’s activities was conducted by HSI Fort Pierce and ATF Fort Pierce. Managing Assistant U.S. Attorney Carmen Lineberger is prosecuting this matter.

The case, 24-cr-14055, can be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov. Markenzy Lapointe, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, made the announcement.

The guilty plea is a significant blow to Pellicione’s reputation and highlights the importance of maintaining accurate records in the firearms industry. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what other consequences Pellicione may face.

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