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Illegal Nigerian immigrant admits lying to buy firearm in US
US Court: Nigerian Man Pleads Guilty to Lying While Attempting to Buy Firearm
A Nigerian national in the United States without legal authorisation to remain in the country has pleaded guilty in a federal court to making false statements while attempting to purchase a firearm.
According to a statement released on Friday by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), court records revealed that the defendant, Laurel Echezonam, aged 25, unlawfully entered the United States through the southern border in 2022.
Immigration authorities later confirmed that Echezonam is a Nigerian national without lawful immigration status in the United States, placing him in violation of federal immigration laws.
Attempted Firearm Purchase in Mississippi
The DOJ disclosed that on June 7 and June 8, 2024, Echezonam travelled from his residence in Vicksburg, Mississippi, to multiple licensed firearms dealers in an attempt to purchase a weapon.
While completing the mandatory firearms transaction forms, Echezonam allegedly provided false information about his immigration status in an effort to deceive the dealers into approving the sale.
The department stated: “When Echezonam completed the required firearms purchase form, he made false statements regarding his immigration status to deceive the firearms dealer into selling him the firearms.”
Arrest and Federal Prosecution
The statement further noted that the firearm purchase was denied after background checks revealed inconsistencies related to his immigration status.
Following the failed transactions, Echezonam was apprehended by immigration officials and placed into federal custody.
The case is currently being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), while prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Murray and C. Brett Grantham.
Sentencing Date and Possible Jail Term
According to the DOJ, Echezonam formally entered a guilty plea on Monday, December 15, at a federal court sitting in the Southern District of Mississippi.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison.
The department clarified that the final sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge after reviewing the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory considerations.
Case Linked to Operation Take Back America
The DOJ confirmed that the prosecution is being handled under Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement and combating organised and violent crime across the United States.
For more verified international crime reports, immigration updates, and breaking legal news affecting Nigerians abroad, visit www.cjsoftflix.com , your trusted source for reliable news and media coverage.
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