An Islesford resident, William Heutz, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Portland to providing false information to a federal firearms dealer. The plea was entered on Wednesday.
Court records state that Heutz, 32, purchased a Glock Model 19 9mm pistol from a licensed federal firearms dealer in February 2023. During the purchase process, he filled out an ATF Form 4473 and indicated he was the actual buyer of the firearm. However, investigators found electronic messages showing that Heutz bought the pistol for another person who provided the money for the transaction. After completing the purchase, Heutz kept some leftover money and transferred the firearm to this individual.
Heutz could face up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. If convicted, he may also receive up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district judge after considering applicable guidelines and statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation into this case.
A straw purchase occurs when someone buys a firearm on behalf of another person who cannot or does not want their name associated with the transaction. This practice is illegal under federal law.
This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that coordinates efforts among various levels of law enforcement and communities to reduce violent crime and gun violence nationwide. In May 2021, the Department launched a strategy aimed at reducing violent crime through building trust within communities, supporting organizations focused on violence prevention, setting targeted enforcement priorities, and tracking results. More details about Project Safe Neighborhoods can be found at www.justice.gov/psn.
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