Syrian National In Fishers Indicted On Federal Firearms Charges

FISHERS, IN — United States Attorney Josh Minkler announced Wednesday that a Syrian national in Fishers faces federal charges for the unlawful purchase and possessing of several firearms, in addition to lying on federal documents while trying to purchase another. Officials say 24-year-old Majd Al Helwani, of Fishers, was indicted Wednesday and charged with four felony counts related to the above activities.

Officials say this case stems from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), after law enforcement officials obtained information in December 2017, from a concerned citizen that Al Helwani had at least one firearm, an AR-15 style, .223 caliber rifle.

“Aggressively prosecuting individuals who are not lawfully permitted to purchase or possess firearms is a cornerstone of a safe society,” said Minkler, in a release. “We are grateful to the collaborative partners who brought this to our attention and encourage all citizens to adhere to the campaign: If you see something, say something.”

According to a release, it was determined by HSI agents that Al Helwani was admitted into the U.S. as a non-immigrant tourist, and has since been prohibited from possessing firearms. Authorities obtained a search warrant for his home, and upon arrival to execute the warrant, officials say Al Helwani caem to the door armed with a loaded 9-millimeter handgun. According to a release, a Sabal Arms, .223 caliber rifle was also recovered from the home, and HSI agents learned during the investigation that the man tried to purchase a shotgun from an Indianapolis area sporting goods store in October 2016.

According to Wednesday's indictment, officials say Al Helwani misrepresented his immigration status during that gun transaction by indicating he had not been admitted into the United States as a non-immigrant tourist.

“These charges send a message to those who lie in order to obtain firearms,” said Special Agent in Charge James M. Gibbons, Chicago HSI, in a release. “HSI is committed to working with our enforcement partners to combat those who threaten national security.”

According to Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Rinka who is prosecuting this case for the government, Al Helwani faces a maximum of ten years in prison if convicted.

Image via Shutterstock