A Swanzey man has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for stealing firearms from a licensed gun shop in Winchester, New Hampshire. Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announced the sentencing of Khale Guillou, aged 20, who was also given three years of supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliot.
In March 2025, Guillou admitted guilt to one count of theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee (FFL). The incident involved the theft of 18 guns from Trader John’s Gun Shop on July 6, 2024. Days after the theft, shell casings were discovered in Guillou’s car.
“The defendant stole 18 guns from an FFL and, just days later, shell casings were found in his car. This case highlights the dangerous link between gun thefts and violent crime,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “Yesterday’s sentence sends a message that we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who fuel gun violence are held accountable.”
Acting ATF SAC Scott Riordan commented on the collaboration with industry partners: “ATF’s collaboration with our industry partners forms the first line of defense against firearms trafficking and diversion.” He emphasized ATF’s focus on protecting federal firearm licensees and preventing criminal use of diverted firearms.
Court documents reveal that nine days post-theft, Guillou’s vehicle was linked to a shooting in Tewksbury, Massachusetts. Law enforcement retrieved three stolen firearms from his car trunk and additional shell casings inside the vehicle. Three more stolen guns were found at Guillou’s residence; two originated from Trader John’s Gun Shop.
The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from police departments in Keene, Swanzey, Winchester, and Tewksbury. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski prosecuted the case.
This action is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations while safeguarding communities against violent crime perpetrators.
