Man Pleads Guilty to Felon with Firearms Charge

Nicholas Rogers, 25, of Hooksett, pleaded guilty in United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire to being a felon in possession of firearms, announced Acting United States Attorney Donald Feith in a press statement.

On Nov. 14, 2014, Rogers pleaded guilty to in the United States District Court to one count of unlicensed firearms dealing and one count of making a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm. The court’s acceptance of Rogers’ guilty plea rendered Rogers a felon who was prohibited from possessing a firearm. He was scheduled to be sentenced in May 2015.

However, prior to his sentencing and despite his felony status, in April 2015 Rogers used an online classified website to trade and purchase firearms. During one of these exchanges, Rogers attempted to sell a firearm to an undercover ATF agent. A subsequent investigation revealed that from March 19, 2015, through April 11, 2015, Rogers traded or purchased five firearms from four different individuals through the online website. In addition, on April 17, 2015, ATF executed a search warrant at Roger’s residence and recovered a Norinco, SKS Model, 7.62 caliber rifle.

“The United States Attorney’s Office will work with law enforcement to identify, investigate and prosecute those who would violate the nation’s gun laws,” said Feith. “This case serves as an example of how the private trading of firearms can thwart the systems put in place to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals. We will continue to aggressively prosecute those who illegally possess firearms.”

“ATF is committed to combating illegal firearms trafficking whether it’s online or on the street. Illegal firearms trafficking puts public safety at risk and our goal is to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” stated ATF Boston Field Division Special Agent in Charge, Daniel J. Kumor.

Rogers faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment. Rogers is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 11, 2015. Rogers was detained pending sentencing.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh.