Bradley Lynn Bishop, 46, of Midland, Texas, has been sentenced to the statutory maximum of 10 years in federal prison for his involvement in a burglary at College Avenue Jewelry and Pawn in Snyder, Texas.
Bishop was charged via criminal complaint in June 2023 and pleaded guilty to one count of theft of firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee in September 2023. The sentencing took place before U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix.
During the hearing, Judge Hendrix remarked, "We have to bolt down everything in this courtroom or you would steal it."
U.S. Attorney Simonton expressed pride in collaborating with the ATF on this case and reiterated the commitment to working with law enforcement partners to prosecute those who steal from Federal Firearms Licensees.
ATF Dallas Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II stated, "Mr. Bishop thought that he could act under the cover of darkness, in a company vehicle, and make a quick buck selling stolen guns. He was wrong. He was wrong again when he tried to run from officers. Snyder and the surrounding communities are safer with Mr. Bishop off the streets."
According to court documents, the burglary occurred on June 26, 2023, where 70 firearms were stolen from the business. Law enforcement investigation revealed that the building was breached by a hole cut in the wall. The rear door was unlocked and unlatched, and alarm sensors were disabled.
Surveillance footage from a nearby business showed a white Dodge pickup pulling into the back of the shop multiple times, with an individual carrying a bag to and from the truck.
Law enforcement traced the vehicle to Trend Services, confirming Bishop as the driver assigned to the truck on the night of the burglary.
The day after the burglary, law enforcement found Bishop at his residence. He attempted to flee but was apprehended after a foot chase. Six firearms and stolen property from the pawn shop were found in his truck.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives, with assistance from the Snyder Police Department, conducted the investigation.
