Parrish Man Arrested on Federal Gun Trafficking Charges
A Parrish man has been arrested on federal charges after authorities say he illegally sold firearms and ammunition to a convicted felon while employed at a licensed gun dealer.
Frank Jude Petrone Sr., 55, is accused of selling three firearms and over 100 rounds of ammunition to an individual prohibited from possessing weapons. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida announced the arrest following an investigation involving the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Authorities say the investigation began after the Sheriff’s Office received a tip from a confidential informant, who then worked with law enforcement to conduct controlled purchases. Over three months, Petrone allegedly sold the informant a .357 Taurus International 605 Poly Protector revolver, a 9mm Sig Sauer M18 semi-automatic pistol, a .45 ISAS 1911A1 semi-automatic pistol, and 115 rounds of ammunition. Investigators claim Petrone was aware the buyer was a convicted felon and ineligible to own firearms but proceeded with the transactions.
During the final sale, authorities say Petrone also offered the informant a machine gun with a serial number that had been altered or removed, a violation of federal firearm laws.
ATF agents arrested Petrone on Tuesday, charging him with trafficking firearms to a convicted felon. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in federal prison.