Rathsomnang Neth, Gun Trafficking, Massachusetts 2021

BOSTON – In a shocking case of gun trafficking, a Lowell man was sentenced on Wednesday, August 11, 2021 for firearms trafficking related to five separate sales, including the sale of an illegal sawed-off shotgun.

Rathsomnang Neth, 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to time served (approximately two days) and three years of supervised release. The government recommended a sentence of 30 months in prison. In January 2019, Neth pleaded guilty to one count of dealing in firearms without a license and two counts of possessing and transferring an unregistered shotgun with a shortened barrel.

From December 2016 to April 2017 in Lowell, Neth sold four handguns and a .20 gauge pump-action shotgun with a barrel that had been sawed-off below 18 inches.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boson Field Office, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert E. Richardson of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

The case against Neth was a result of a thorough investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boson Field Office. The charges against Neth were brought as part of an ongoing effort to reduce gun violence in the city of Lowell.

Neth’s sentencing serves as a warning to those involved in gun trafficking and related crimes. The city of Lowell will continue to work closely with federal and local law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.

Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Related Federal Cases