Fort Mill, South Carolina, February 11, 2026
Gregory L. Tischuk, a 65-year-old Fort Mill resident, has been indicted for allegedly providing false information on a federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 when buying a firearm. Accused of lying about being the actual buyer, Tischuk’s actions may constitute a straw purchase, which carries severe penalties including up to 10 years in prison if convicted. This case highlights the importance of compliance with federal firearm regulations to prevent illegal acquisitions.
Fort Mill
Man Indicted for Allegedly Lying During Firearm Purchase
Federal Charges Filed Against Fort Mill Resident
Fort Mill, South Carolina – Gregory L. Tischuk, a 65-year-old resident, has been indicted on charges of allegedly providing false information on a federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 when acquiring a firearm from a large retailer. The indictment, which became public in the last 48 hours, accuses Tischuk of falsely stating that he was the actual buyer of the firearm.
The alleged offense centers on Tischuk’s completion of the required federal form, where he reportedly affirmed he was purchasing the weapon for himself. Such an action, if proven to be untruthful and the firearm was intended for another individual, constitutes an illegal transaction commonly known as a straw purchase. If convicted of lying on the federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473, Tischuk could face significant legal consequences, including a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
Understanding Federal Firearm Regulations
The Role of Form 4473 in Firearm Sales
The federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 is a critical document mandated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for all firearm purchases from Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, which include licensed gun dealers across the United States. This multi-page form serves as the official record of the transaction and is essential for ensuring compliance with federal and state firearms laws.
When a person intends to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer, they are required to complete Form 4473. This form collects vital personal information from the prospective buyer, including their name, address, date of birth, and government-issued photo identification. Crucially, it also includes a series of “yes or no” questions designed to determine the buyer’s eligibility to purchase and possess a firearm under federal law. Among these questions is one that specifically asks if the buyer is the actual transferee or buyer of the firearm.
The information provided on Form 4473 is used by the FFL to initiate a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), managed by the FBI. This system screens for criminal records and other disqualifying factors to ensure that firearms do not fall into the hands of individuals prohibited from owning them. Accuracy and honesty are paramount when completing this form, as providing false statements is a federal offense.
Combating Straw Purchases and Ensuring Public Safety
A key purpose of the federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 is to prevent straw purchases. A straw purchase occurs when an individual who is legally eligible to buy a firearm purchases it on behalf of another person who is either prohibited by law from possessing a firearm or simply wishes to conceal their identity from the transaction records. This deceptive practice poses a significant threat to public safety because it bypasses established background check systems and places firearms in the hands of potentially dangerous individuals.
Federal agencies, particularly the ATF, actively work to combat illegal straw purchases. They employ various strategies, including investigations and public awareness campaigns, to educate both firearms dealers and the public about the severe legal consequences associated with these illegal transactions. Licensed firearms dealers are also trained to recognize potential red flags associated with attempted straw purchases.
Penalties for Violating Federal Firearm Laws
Lying on a federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 is considered a serious felony offense under federal law. The potential penalties for making false statements on this form are substantial, reflecting the gravity of undermining the federal system designed to regulate firearm transfers. Individuals found guilty of such offenses can face imprisonment for up to 10 years and significant fines. Some violations of the Gun Control Act can even carry penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine. These stringent penalties underscore the federal government’s commitment to preventing illegal firearm acquisitions and enhancing community safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Fort Mill Firearm Indictment
- What is Gregory L. Tischuk accused of?
Gregory L. Tischuk, a 65-year-old resident of Fort Mill, South Carolina, is accused of lying on a federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 when purchasing a firearm from a large retailer. He is alleged to have falsely stated that he was the actual buyer of the firearm. - What is the federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473?
The federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 is a critical document mandated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for all firearm purchases from Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, such as licensed gun dealers, across the United States. It serves as an official record of the transaction and initiates a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). - What are the potential penalties for lying on Form 4473?
Lying on a federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 is a serious federal offense. If convicted, an individual could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years and significant fines. - What is a straw purchase?
A straw purchase occurs when an individual who is legally eligible to buy a firearm purchases it on behalf of another person who is either prohibited by law from possessing a firearm or simply wishes to conceal their identity from the transaction records. - Why is Form 4473 important?
Form 4473 is important because it ensures compliance with federal and state firearms laws, documents the transfer of firearms, initiates background checks through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), and includes specific questions designed to detect and prevent illegal straw purchases, thereby enhancing public safety.
Key Aspects of Federal Firearm Purchase Regulations
| Aspect | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation/Form | Federal Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 | Nationwide |
| Purpose | To document firearm transfers, initiate background checks, and prevent illegal sales, including straw purchases. | Nationwide |
| Required For | All firearm purchases from Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders (licensed dealers). | Nationwide |
| Key Requirement | Buyer must affirm they are the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm. | Nationwide |
| Penalty for Lying | Up to 10 years imprisonment and/or substantial fines. | Nationwide |
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