James Harris, a 33-year-old resident of Mississippi, entered a guilty plea on April 23, 2025, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance for possessing machine guns. This was confirmed by Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Harris's conviction is in accordance with Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
Court documents reveal that special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) were involved in identifying individuals trafficking firearms in New Orleans. Between September and November of 2023, Harris communicated with agents regarding the sale of machine guns and firearms. On November 15, 2023, Harris conducted a sale of machine guns and firearms to undercover ATF agents in the eastern District of Louisiana.
Harris is slated for sentencing on August 13, 2025. He faces potential penalties including up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a national initiative by the Department of Justice. The operation aims to combat illegal immigration, eradicate cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime. It incorporates resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman from the Narcotics Unit is handling the prosecution.
