Three individuals in Texas are facing significant prison time for the alleged possession of illegal firearm conversion devices. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas reported that Anethen Sergio Bruno, also known as "BIG A," was arrested and charged with possessing machinegun conversion devices on two handguns, colloquially known as "switches," which allow a firearm to discharge multiple rounds with a single trigger pull. The law specifies that owning or manufacturing such devices is tantamount to possessing a machinegun, a violation of federal law.
During his first appearance in federal court today, 21-year-old Bruno was formally charged with two counts of machinegun possession, which could result in up to a decade behind bars if he's convicted. A federal district court judge will make sentencing decisions, influenced by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Meanwhile his co-defendants, Hector Elias, also known as "COCO," and Miguel Angel Reyes, or "ANGEL," were arrested late last month and also face charges related to the possession of illegal firearm modification equipment.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, 20-year-old Elias is up against one count of machinegun possession and an additional charge for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The latter charge could mean up to 15 years in prison, stacking on the potential 10 years for the machinegun charge. Reyes, 22, is dealing with one count of possession of a machinegun, with a possible 10-year sentence of his own.
The ATF is leading the investigation into the case, which has drawn a spotlight on the continued scrutiny of illegal firearm modifications. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Warsame Galaydh, and Matt Kass are in charge of the prosecution efforts. While an indictment has been announced, it is important to note as always, that these accusations are only charges, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless, and until proven guilty in a court of law.
