United States Attorney Richard G. Frohling announced on April 27, 2022, that a Milwaukee woman was indicted for purchasing a firearm for another person and making a false statement to a firearm’s dealer. Marquita A. Hale, (age: 26), was charged with making a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the purchase of a firearm on June 17, 2021, which false statement was intended or likely to deceive the firearms dealer about whether to proceed with the sale. In particular, the indictment charged that Ms. Hale falsely indicated on a standard form that she would possess the firearm after the sale, when in fact, she knew she was buying the firearm for another person.
“The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to working with our federal, state, local, and tribal partners to improve the safety of all of our communities,” stated U.S. Attorney Frohling. “This includes working together to hold individuals accountable who ‘straw purchase’ and supply firearms for others – including individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law.”
“The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) appreciates the hard work and effort from the ATF, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and MPD members that have been collaborating on this and other firearms investigations. Gun violence is an issue that is affecting our community and it is everyone’s responsibility to keep guns away from individuals that are prohibited from possessing a firearm,” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman.
If convicted, Ms. Hale faces up to ten years in prison and three years of supervised release, plus up to a $250,000 fine.
This matter has been investigated by the Milwaukee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephen A. Ingraham.
The public is cautioned that an indictment is merely a charge and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov
(414) 297-1700
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