Federal authorities arrested a Beverly Hills man after he allegedly attempted to sell two stolen handguns via Snapchat, including one firearm he purportedly tried to sell back to its original owner. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California identified the suspect as 33-year-old Brian Keith Mims.
Criminal Charges and Alleged Snapchat Activity
Brian Keith Mims faces federal charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court, investigators allege Mims used his Snapchat account to advertise the sale of multiple weapons.
The investigation began after authorities discovered that a firearm reported stolen by a victim in Los Angeles was being offered for sale on the social media platform. Federal agents allege that Mims contacted the victim through Snapchat, unaware of the victim’s identity, and attempted to sell the stolen weapon back to them. The victim notified the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), leading to a controlled undercover operation.
The Undercover Operation and Arrest
During the investigation, undercover agents arranged to meet Mims to purchase two handguns. The complaint details that Mims met with the undercover personnel on August 29, 2024, to complete the transaction. Agents confirmed the weapons provided by Mims matched the descriptions of firearms reported stolen. Following the exchange of the weapons for cash, Mims was taken into custody without incident.
Legal Stakes and Prior Convictions
The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm carries a significant statutory penalty. According to the Department of Justice, federal law prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. Mims has a documented criminal history, which serves as the basis for the current federal charge.
If convicted, Mims faces a maximum statutory sentence of 15 years in federal prison. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with the ATF serving as the lead investigative agency. As of the latest court filings, the defendant remains in federal custody pending further proceedings.
Key Details of the Case
- Defendant: Brian Keith Mims, 33, of Beverly Hills.
- Primary Charge: Felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
- Evidence: Authorities seized two handguns during an undercover operation on August 29, 2024.
- Platform Involved: Snapchat, which was used to facilitate the alleged illegal sales.
- Prosecuting Agency: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
This case highlights the increasing use of encrypted social media applications in the illegal trafficking of firearms. Federal prosecutors continue to monitor platforms like Snapchat to identify and disrupt the illicit sale of stolen weapons in the Southern California region.