A Souderton Borough woman, Iris Guadalupe Pinto Cueva, 43, is facing serious legal consequences after allegedly lying on a firearm purchase application. Pinto Cueva attempted to buy a .380 Auto Beretta Pico 380 from Wellington Sporting Goods in Souderton. However, her criminal background and U.S. residency status raised red flags. As a Honduran national in the country illegally with a criminal record, Pinto Cueva is prohibited from owning a firearm under both state and federal laws. The Pennsylvania State Firearms Division alerted local police to Pinto Cueva's attempted gun purchase. The division provided evidence that Pinto Cueva had falsified information on her application, particularly regarding her citizenship status and previous criminal history. She is now charged with felony providing false information for firearm ownership and misdemeanor giving a false statement under penalty of law. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team can help if you've been charged with fraudulently purchasing a firearm. Contact us at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Understanding the Legalities of Fraudulently Purchasing a Firearm in Pennsylvania

Purchasing a firearm in Pennsylvania involves strict legal protocols, including undergoing a background check and completing detailed forms—ATF Form 4473 and SP 4-113. These forms are designed to assess whether an individual is legally permitted to own a firearm, considering factors such as criminal history, mental health, and residency status. Unfortunately, even a minor mistake or misrepresentation on these forms can lead to severe legal repercussions. In Pennsylvania, knowingly making a false statement in connection with the purchase of a firearm is a felony offense under 18 PA.C.S. 6111(G)(4). This means that even if you accidentally check the wrong box, you could face felony charges, hefty fines, and potential jail time.

Additionally, the misdemeanor charge of Unsworn Falsification to Authorities often accompanies these cases. This charge criminalizes making a false statement with the intent to mislead a public servant, further complicating the legal landscape for those facing such accusations. Common errors on these forms include misreporting prior criminal convictions, misunderstanding the implications of Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders, and providing inaccurate residency or citizenship information. Given the high stakes, it's crucial to approach this process carefully and seek legal guidance if facing charges.

Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney: Your Ally in a Complex Legal Battle

As illustrated, a simple mistake on a firearm application can lead to life-altering consequences in Pennsylvania. Relying on the criminal justice system to recognize your mistake and dismiss the charges is a gamble you shouldn't take. You need the experience of a dedicated attorney to defend your case effectively and demonstrate your lack of malicious intent. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has extensive experience representing clients in similar situations. We understand the nuances of firearm-related charges and will work tirelessly to protect your rights. Contact us today. Contact us at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to discuss your case and secure the legal representation you need.