Burlington, Vermont criminal defense lawyer represented Defendant charged with a user of controlled substances knowingly making a false statement to deceive a federal firearms dealer with respect to the lawfulness of the same of a firearm.

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Harley Davis, 28, of Enosburg, Vermont, was charged with making false statements to federally licensed firearms dealers in connection with the purchase of three firearms in May 2022.



As set forth in the affidavit in support of the complaint, Davis allegedly purchased the firearms for individuals who had come to Vermont for the purpose of selling controlled substances. The U.S. Attorney's Office emphasizes that the complaint is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.



The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia Cowles represents the government. Assistant Federal Public Defender Mary Nerino was appointed to represent Ms. Davis. 



18 U.S.C. 922(a)(6) provides:

It shall be unlawful ...



6) for any person in connection with the acquisition or attempted acquisition of any firearm or ammunition from a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer, or licensed collector, knowingly to make any false or fictitious oral or written statement or to furnish or exhibit any false, fictitious, or misrepresented identification, intended or likely to deceive such importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector with respect to any fact material to the lawfulness of the sale or other disposition of such firearm or ammunition under the provisions of this chapter;...

Davis appeared in court before the Hon. Kevin J. Doyle, U.S. Magistrate Judge, and was detained pending further proceedings. If convicted, Davis faces a maximum possible penalty of 10 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.