Maryland Men Admit to Roles in Firearms Trafficking Operation

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Hagerstown, Maryland, men have admitted to firearms trafficking in Berkeley County, West Virginia.

Christopher Seth St. Clair, age 24, pled guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. David Lamont Barnes, age 23, pled guilty to conspiracy to violate gun control act. 

According to court documents, St. Clair and Barnes worked with others to purchase firearms and transport them to individuals across state lines. During the purchase of the firearms, St. Clair, falsely claimed he was not purchasing the firearms on behalf of other persons. Barnes assisted in the purchases and transportation.

St. Clair is facing up to 10 years in federal prison. Barnes is facing up to five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.