Shane Cox, 44, Chanute, Kan., who owned an Army surplus store called Tough Guys, is charged with 12 counts.
The charges include making a false statement during a federal investigation, possession of an unregistered firearm, conspiracy, transfer of a firearm in violation of the National Firearm Act, making a firearm in violation of the National Firearm Act and engaging in business as a dealer and manufacturer of firearms.
The indictment alleges Cox:
- Advertised for sale silencers that were not registered as required by federal law.
- Manufactured silencers without paying federal taxes.
- Possessed silencers that were not manufactured, sold or registered as required by federal law.
- Manufactured a silencer that was not identified by a serial number as required by federal law.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
- Making a false statement: A maximum penalty of five years and a fine up to $250,000.
- Possession of an unregistered firearm: A maximum penalty of 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
- Conspiracy: A maximum penalty of five years and a fine up to $250,000.
- Transfer of a firearm in violation of the National Firearm Act: A maximum penalty of 10 years and a fine up to $10,000 on each count.
- Making a firearm in violation of the National Firearm Act: A maximum penalty of 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
- Engaging in business as a dealer and manufacturer of firearms: A maximum penalty of 10 years and a fine up to $10,000.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
