A federal grand jury has indicted five former high school classmates from Fresno, California, on charges related to an alleged multi-year conspiracy to smuggle firearms into the state. The defendants, Harman Pahal, Cameron Chouanmasay, Colton Malone, Julian Calderon, and Jaskarn Batth, all in their early 20s, are accused of acquiring assault-style weapons and handguns and bringing them back to California for resale, despite none holding licenses to deal, manufacture, or import firearms.
The indictment details a scheme that allegedly spanned from December 2024 through April 2026. Prosecutors claim the group repeatedly traveled from Fresno to Texas to illegally obtain firearms, including Draco-style AK-type pistols and other handguns. Upon returning to California, they are accused of using social media platforms to advertise and sell the weapons. All five defendants pleaded not guilty during their arraignment.
The charges include conspiracy, engaging in the business of dealing and manufacturing firearms without a license, interstate travel with the intent to unlawfully deal firearms, and illegally importing firearms into California. If convicted, each defendant faces up to five years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy, unlicensed dealing, and unlawful importation charges. The interstate firearms trafficking count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The investigation was a collaborative effort led by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Fresno Police Department. This case is part of a broader nationwide initiative by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) aimed at dismantling criminal networks, including gun trafficking operations. This initiative has previously led to significant seizures, such as nearly 3,000 pounds of crystal methamphetamine discovered in March following raids in central California.