Matthew Hoover of CRS Firearms YouTube Channel Sentenced to Federal Prison
Matthew Hoover, a prominent YouTuber known for his CRS Firearms channel with over 180,000 subscribers, has been handed a five-year federal prison sentence. This verdict is linked to his promotion of an auto key card device capable of converting semi-automatic rifles into illegal machine guns.
The Impact of Hoover’s Videos
Prosecution’s Argument:
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida led the prosecution, contending that Hoover’s CRS Firearms channel significantly boosted sales of the controversial auto key card device.
Sales Surge:
Court records reveal that Hoover’s co-conspirator, Kristopher Justinboyer Ervin, produced about 300 auto key card prototypes in October 2020. Hoover began advertising the device a month later, resulting in the sale of approximately 2,000 units within a few months.
Deceptive Sales:
Ervin established a website selling these devices, disguised as innocent items like bottle openers, despite their dangerous capabilities.
Firearm Modification Controversy
Suspicion and Surveillance:
Authorities noticed suspicious activities by Ervin’s bank in January 2021, leading to surveillance by ATF agents and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in February 2021. Agents observed Ervin mailing numerous packages containing auto key card devices.
Prosecutors’ Claims:
Prosecutors alleged that an ATF firearms enforcement officer converted a semi-automatic AR-15 into a fully automatic weapon in just 40 minutes using the auto key card’s lightning link. Hoover’s defense argued that the officer created his design and that the firearm malfunctioned.
Hoover’s Reaction:
After the raid on Ervin’s residence, Hoover expressed disbelief in a video, stating that he could be charged for having a drawing. Ervin allegedly compensated Hoover with cash and even a Louis Vuitton purse via mail.
Key Evidence
Conspiracy Scope:
Court evidence revealed at least 6,600 individual lightning links were part of this conspiracy.
Appeal Intention
Despite the guilty verdict, Hoover’s attorneys have announced their intention to appeal the decision.
Surrender and Consequences
Individuals possessing an auto key card device are advised to contact the nearest ATF office or call 1-800-ATF-GUNS to arrange its surrender for destruction.
This case underscores the severe consequences associated with promoting and distributing potentially dangerous devices.
FAQs about US YouTuber Convicted For Promoting Illegal Firearm Mods: Turning Semi-Automatics Into Machine Guns
1. What led to Matthew Hoover’s federal prison sentence?
Hoover was sentenced for promoting an auto key card device capable of converting semi-automatic rifles into illegal machine guns.
2. How did the promotion of this device impact its sales?
Hoover’s CRS Firearms channel significantly boosted the sales of the auto key card device.
3. What evidence did prosecutors present in court regarding the device’s capabilities?
Prosecutors claimed that an ATF firearms enforcement officer converted a semi-automatic AR-15 into a fully automatic weapon using the device’s lightning link.
4. Is there an option for individuals possessing an auto key card device to surrender it legally?
Yes, authorities recommend contacting the nearest ATF office or calling 1-800-ATF-GUNS to arrange its surrender for destruction.
