United States v. Willie Lawrence Dana M. Somogye

This is a direct appeal of the convictions of Willie Lawrence and Dana Somogye for making false statements in connection with the purchase of firearms in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6). Initially we must dispose of counsel’s motion regarding the death of Willie Lawrence. The government has made no objection to the motion and we vacate Lawrence’s conviction and remand the case to the District Court for entry of an appropriate order.

Here, Somogye raises a novel, although specious argument. He admits that he and Lawrence knowingly purchased guns for an individual who could not legally buy…