Federal jury convicts man of gun trafficking

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– A man was convicted in Columbia by a federal jury for illegally trafficking firearms, said the DOJ.

Evidence presented at trial revealed that 27-year-old Kelsey Antonio McCallum and his sister, Daeja Hodge, conspired to purchase firearms and resale the firearms for profit.

At least 13 times from 2020-2022, investigators said McCallum made false statements to acquire firearms at dealers in Columbia, Sumter, and the Upstate.

McCallum is also accused of purchasing firearms from Georgia.

During each purchase, McCallum stated that the firearms were intended for his personal use, but investigators said he knew that he intended to sell them.

McCallum would then illegally take the firearms to Maryland and sell them there.

The DOJ said McCallum and Hodge acquired over 100 firearms during their alleged scheme,  and most of the firearms ended up in the hands of felons prohibited from possessing firearms or at crime scenes in the Baltimore area.

A few firearms were sold in North Carolina.  At trial, the government introduced more than 30 firearms and ammunition found by law enforcement in the Baltimore area.

Hodge pleaded guilty to her role in the offense prior to McCallum’s trial.

McCallum faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.

He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.

A United States District judge will sentence him after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office, said the Department of Justice.