News Summary
Two men, Blair Allen Garner and Tradd Alexander Kinney, have been indicted by a federal grand jury for making false statements to illegally purchase firearms. Their actions have raised serious concerns about gun safety in Charleston County. The indictment reveals a conspiracy to mislead a federally licensed firearms dealer, involving the purchase of guns intended for individuals prohibited from owning firearms. As the legal process unfolds, the community is anxious about the broader implications of illegal firearm trading.
Two Men Facing Serious Charges in Charleston County for Illegal Firearm Purchases
In a shocking turn of events, two individuals from Charleston County have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy aimed at making false statements to purchase firearms illegally. This case has surfaced amidst ongoing concerns about gun control and the safety of the community.
The Allegations
The two accused, Blair Allen Garner and Tradd Alexander Kinney, are now facing some pretty serious federal charges. The indictment reveals they allegedly worked together to mislead a federally licensed firearms dealer, allowing them to purchase guns intended for people who are prohibited from buying firearms. This isn’t just a minor hiccup; it’s a major violation of federal laws designed to keep firearms out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them.
Details of the Conspiracy
What’s particularly alarming is the detailed information provided in the indictment. Garner is allegedly responsible for purchasing a Glock 17 9 mm pistol back in November 2022. This wasn’t just a casual purchase; he was supposedly buying it for someone who wasn’t legally allowed to own a firearm. That raises some significant safety concerns in the community.
But the plot thickens with Kinney’s involvement. In August 2023, he instructed another individual to provide false information in order to buy a .38-caliber Smith and Wesson revolver for himself. Just like Garner, Kinney’s reasons for being unable to legally purchase a firearm remain unspecified, but there’s no doubt this raises a red flag.
More Attempts, More Lies
Even more concerning, Kinney allegedly made yet another attempt to buy a Glock 19 9 mm pistol in August 2024. The twist here is that he was trying to procure this firearm for someone who was legally allowed to make such a purchase. This behavior exemplifies a clear pattern of attempting to navigate around federal firearm laws, which is particularly troubling and suggests a deeper issue at play.
What Happens Next?
As the legal process unfolds, both Garner and Kinney are currently being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center. Their future now heavily depends on the proceedings that will follow this indictment. With the community watching closely, this case might shed light on the broader issue of illegal firearms trading and the methods individuals are willing to employ to bypass the system.
The Bigger Picture
The investigation has exposed a troubling pattern of illegal firearm purchases and fraudulent activities that aim to circumvent the laws designed to protect society. Given the ongoing debates about gun safety and regulations, cases like this remind us of the importance of adhering to these laws. The safety of our neighborhoods is a shared responsibility, and when individuals choose to ignore these laws, it can have dire consequences.
It’s alarming to think that in a place like Charleston County, there are individuals willing to take such risks to enable others to illegally obtain firearms. As authorities continue to investigate, many community members are left wondering how to address the ongoing issues surrounding gun ownership and safety.
Final Thoughts
The indictment of Blair Allen Garner and Tradd Alexander Kinney serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that come with gun ownership in America. As the legal process continues, discussion surrounding gun regulation will likely remain at the forefront, pushing for change and enforcement of the laws designed to protect the public from the dangers of illegal firearms.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- WCHS TV
- ABC News 4
- Post and Courier
- Count On 2
- Wikipedia: Gun Control
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
- Google Search: Charleston gun laws
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
