In a recent ATF investigation, Xavier Sibrian of Badger, Minnesota, was charged with illegally possessing three machine gun conversion devices after federal agents traced 12 firearms purchased by him to crime scenes in California. The investigation began when Sibrian was flagged as a potential straw purchaser and was found to have purchased 24 firearms across five sales at a federal firearms licensee in Roseau, Minnesota. Despite all purchases being made in Minnesota, the guns were later seized in crimes in California, a highly unusual occurrence. The average time between purchase and seizure was about 123 days, with some guns being recovered just 33 days after purchase.
In a search of Sibrian’s home, ATF agents found the machine gun conversion devices along with firearm suppressors and instructions for creating explosive devices. Sibrian admitted to ordering the devices but denied using them. He is currently facing charges of unlawful possession of a machine gun and has been released under strict conditions pending further court appearances. The investigation highlights the dangers of straw purchasing and the illicit trafficking of firearms across state lines. Sibrian’s case serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous background checks and monitoring of firearm sales to prevent illegal activities.
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