Thomas L. Hill, Jr., Gun Smuggling, New York 2022

A gun smuggling ring in New York was brought down after the mastermind, Thomas L. Hill, Jr., was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Hill, 33, of Cleveland, Ohio, was convicted of conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer.

Hill's father, Thomas L. Hill, Sr., and Tevon Orr were also involved in the smuggling ring. Hill's father was previously convicted and sentenced to serve nine years in prison, while Orr was sentenced to seven years.

The investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Violent Crimes Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, New York Field Division, uncovered the smuggling ring. Hill had three previous felony convictions and was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Between October and December 24, 2020, Hill conspired with his father and Orr to sell firearms without a license. He would obtain firearms and ammunition in Ohio, transport them to Rochester, and re-sell them in the area. Hill also provided firearms to his father and Orr, which they would re-sell to other individuals.

The investigation led to the execution of a federal search warrant at a residence on Norton Street in Rochester on December 24, 2020. The search warrant resulted in the recovery of two handguns, an assault rifle, and over 300 rounds of ammunition. Hill was arrested on July 22, 2021, in Ohio and was incarcerated on Ohio charges until his release in June 2022. He was then charged in federal court.

Hill's sentencing is the culmination of the investigation, which brought down a significant gun smuggling ring in New York.

Contact: Barbara Burns, (716) 843-5817, or (716) 551-3051 (fax).

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdny/pr/ohio-gun-runner-sentenced-10-years-prison