Jeremy Mongold of Moorefield, West Virginia, has been convicted on multiple firearms charges after purchasing a pistol for his brother, who was legally prohibited from owning guns. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that Mongold lied during the purchase process and later misled federal agents about the intended owner of the firearm.
“Mongold intentionally lied so he could purchase a pistol for a violent person who was prohibited from possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “That pistol was subsequently used in a serious crime, and Mongold lied to federal agents to cover his tracks. Now he faces a prison sentence.”
Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) stated: “By lying on an ATF form to purchase a firearm for his brother, Jeremy Mongold contributed to additional violent crime. As a result of his actions, he will now serve a lengthy federal prison sentence.”
A jury found Mongold guilty following a two-day trial in Elkins, West Virginia. He was convicted of making false statements to acquire a firearm, unlawfully transferring the weapon, and making false statements to federal authorities. Evidence showed that after Zachary Mongold attempted unsuccessfully to buy a firearm due to his prior domestic battery conviction, Jeremy purchased the same gun the next day and later denied its true ownership when questioned by law enforcement officials.
The pistol purchased by Jeremy Mongold was later used in another serious crime in Pendleton County.
Zachary Mongold previously pleaded guilty in December 2025 to unlawful possession of a firearm related to this case; sentencing is pending.
Jeremy Mongold faces up to 15 years in prison for the transfer count, up to 10 years for making false statements during the firearm purchase, and up to 5 years for making false statements to federal agents. Sentencing will be determined by Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh after consideration of applicable guidelines and statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Cogar and Stephen Warner prosecuted the case with investigative support from ATF as part of Operation Take Back America—a national effort led by the Department of Justice aimed at eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations while combating violent crime across communities.
