A Whittier man pleaded guilty Thursday to orchestrating the armed robbery of a confidential federal informant and operating an unlicensed firearm dealing business that sold “ghost guns,” without serial numbers, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California.
Salvador Lopez, 24, admitted to one count of armed robbery involving U.S. funds using a dangerous weapon and one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“This defendant not only sold guns illegally, putting firearms on the streets where they could be used to hurt others, but he also directed a minor to engage in violent crime,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Now, this defendant will be held accountable.”
As outlined in the plea agreement, Lopez personally sold firearms, sent pictures of guns for sale to others, and directed associates to sell munitions on his behalf.
The plea agreement further reveals that Lopez was involved in the sale or facilitation of 15 firearms to law enforcement agents and individuals acting on their behalf.