6 Arrested In Montco Gun Trafficking Ring Bust: DA

Six suspects have been arrested in the bust of an illegal firearms trafficking organization operating in Montgomery County, the District Attorney's Office announced Friday.

Authorities identified Michael Hill, 30, of Lower Pottsgrove, as the leader of the ring. Five other men and one woman were charged with corrupt organizations, unlawful transfer of a firearm and related counts, the DA said.

Also arrested were Corey DeJohnette, 23, of Pottstown, Phillipe DeJohnette, 24, of Stowe, Andrew Person, 30, of Reading, Chad Hill, 18, of Birdsboro, and Anthony Walker, 28, of Philadelphia. A warrant has also been issued for the arrest of Pottstown's Jennifer Bender, 28, authorities said.

The DA said that Hill created a network of "straw purchasers," or people who buy guns and then resell them to others.

"This investigation into this corrupt organization was initiative by several astute law enforcement personell connecting the dots on two guns used in two separate crimes by persons not legally allowed to have a gun," said District Attorney Kevin Steele. "Our entire region is safer for it."

Hill and the others would purchase illegal firearms and falsify the records of sale before selling them again, according to authorities. A total of 13 firearms, including several handguns, automatic weapons and a long rifle, were purchased.

Hill was also involved in trafficking pills and methamphetamines, the DA said.

A preliminary hearing for the arrested individuals has been set for March 3.

Images courtesy Montgomery County District Attorney's Office