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Ky’von Love Bernard Payne, a Las Vegas man, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison for his role in trafficking stolen firearms. On March 25, 2024, Payne and his co-defendant, Semaj’e Ridgeway, were found in possession of 35 stolen guns, including semiautomatic rifles and pistols, at Ridgeway’s North Las Vegas residence. The firearms had price tags and descriptions from a licensed dealer in Southern California, indicating they were intended for sale. Payne pleaded guilty to possession of stolen firearms and trafficking in firearms.
The investigation, led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), revealed that Payne and his co-defendants, Jahova Bell and Lanell Bellows, exchanged a semiautomatic rifle and cash for two stolen pistols on the same day. This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun trafficking in the United States and the efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat it.
The sentencing of Payne is a significant outcome in the fight against gun violence and illegal firearms trafficking. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig, with the support of First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah and Special Agent in Charge John Wester of the ATF’s San Francisco Field Division.
The public is urged to report any information about gun violence or illegal activities involving firearms to the ATF by calling 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477). This sentence serves as a warning to those involved in gun trafficking that they will be held accountable for their actions.
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