In a recent arrest, Brian Jesus Hernandez, a 24-year-old man from Tucson, Arizona, has been charged with dealing firearms without a license and possessing firearms that are not registered. Hernandez was using a SnapChat account to advertise and sell firearms, and during an investigation, it was discovered that he had sold a fully automatic pistol with no serial number to an undercover detective from the Tucson Police Department. He also sold a conversion device that allows a semiautomatic assault rifle to fire fully automatic. Hernandez demonstrated the creation of this device using a 3D printer and provided instructions on its use. This article highlights the arrest and the details of the investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tucson Police Department.
Introduction
In a recent case, Brian Jesus Hernandez, a 24-year-old resident of Tucson, Arizona, was arrested and charged with dealing firearms without a license and possessing firearms not identified by a serial number. This article will provide an overview of the arrest and charges, details of the investigation, seizure of evidence, agencies involved, prosecution and case number, related content, and contact information.
Arrest and Charges
Arrest of Brian Jesus Hernandez
On Monday, Brian Jesus Hernandez was arrested by law enforcement authorities. The arrest was the result of a thorough investigation conducted by the Tucson Police Department.
Charges Faced by Hernandez
Hernandez is facing multiple charges, including dealing firearms without a license and possessing firearms not identified by a serial number. The investigation uncovered evidence that he was using social media platform Snapchat to advertise and sell firearms illegally.
Details of the Investigation
Use of SnapChat to Advertise and Sell Firearms
During the investigation, detectives from the Tucson Police Department discovered that Hernandez was utilizing a SnapChat account to engage in the illegal sale of firearms. This discovery prompted further action and surveillance.
Sale of Fully Automatic 9mm Pistol
On November 17, 2022, Hernandez sold a fully automatic 9mm pistol without a serial number to an undercover detective from the Tucson Police Department. This transaction provided crucial evidence and solidified the case against him.
Sale of ‘Drop-in Auto Sear’
Continuing their undercover work, law enforcement authorities were able to make another purchase from Hernandez. On February 6, 2023, Hernandez sold a “drop-in auto sear” to an undercover agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This conversion device allows a semi-automatic AR-15 style assault rifle to fire fully automatic. Hernandez claimed to have manufactured the device using a 3D printer and showed the agent a video tutorial on how to utilize it.
Seizure of Evidence
Search Warrant Execution
Following the investigation and undercover operations, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Hernandez’s residence. This crucial step allowed them to gather more evidence and build a strong case against him.
Items Seized from Hernandez’s Residence
During the execution of the search warrant, agents seized two 3D printers, four firearms, and various firearms parts. These seized items will be instrumental in determining the full extent of Hernandez’s involvement in illegal firearms dealings.
Agencies Involved in the Investigation
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) played a significant role in this investigation. Their expertise and resources were vital in gathering evidence and ensuring a successful arrest and subsequent prosecution.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) also played a crucial role in this case. Their undercover agents were able to make key purchases from Hernandez, which provided crucial evidence for the charges he is facing.
Tucson Police Department
The Tucson Police Department conducted the initial investigation and led the efforts to apprehend Hernandez. Their dedication and collaboration with federal agencies were instrumental in bringing this case together.
Prosecution and Case Number
United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson
The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, based in Tucson, will be handling the prosecution of Hernandez. Their experienced prosecutors will work diligently to ensure a fair and just outcome in this case.
Case Number and Release Number
The case against Brian Jesus Hernandez has been assigned the case number MJ-23-05662-BGM. The release number associated with this arrest is 2023-019_Hernandez.
Related Content
Tucson Firearms Smuggler Sentenced to 60 Months for Conspiring to Smuggle Firearms into Mexico
In a related case, a Tucson firearms smuggler, Victor Coronado Jr., was recently sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to smuggle firearms into Mexico. This case highlights the ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal firearms trafficking in the region.
FFL Owner Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Providing a Firearm to Essa Williams, Alleged Shooter of Phoenix Police Department Officer Tyler Moldovan
In another case involving illegal firearms transactions, an FFL owner in Phoenix was sentenced to prison for illegally providing a firearm to Essa Williams, the alleged shooter of Phoenix Police Department Officer Tyler Moldovan. This case underscores the importance of stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands.
Two Teens Sentenced to Federal Prison for Attempting to Smuggle AK-47-Style Rifles Into Mexico
Two teenagers from Arizona were recently sentenced to federal prison for attempting to smuggle AK-47-style rifles into Mexico. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat illegal firearms trafficking along the border.
Contact Information
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, please visit their website at http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/. You can also follow them on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news and updates.
For any inquiries or assistance regarding this case or related matters, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, using the provided contact information on their website.
In conclusion, the arrest and charges against Brian Jesus Hernandez highlight the ongoing efforts to combat illegal firearms trafficking. The collaboration between federal agencies such as the FBI and ATF, along with the dedicated work of the Tucson Police Department, has resulted in the apprehension of an individual engaged in dangerous and potentially criminal activities. The prosecution of this case by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, will ensure that justice is served and that the community remains safe from the illegal sale and possession of firearms.