DOJ Seal

Department of Justice

U.S. Attorney's Office
District of Minnesota

For Immediate Release

Monday, December 6, 2021
Charles J. Kovats
, United States Attorney

Minneapolis Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of Unregistered Firearm

MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man pleaded guilty to illegal possession of an unregistered firearm announced Acting U.S. Attorney Charles J. Kovats.

According to court documents, in July 2021, law enforcement officers obtained a search warrant for a Minneapolis residence associated with Nicholas Robert Briski-Smith, 25, who had “probable cause pickup” warrants for two recent alleged felony assaults, one of which involved a shooting, and multiple outstanding warrants. While conducting surveillance in preparation for the execution of the search warrant, officers observed Briski-Smith exit his residence and drive away in a vehicle. Officers followed Briski-Smith to a nearby corner store where they took him into custody. Following the arrest, officers recovered a loaded Stevens Arms 12-gauge short-barreled shotgun that was concealed and affixed to Briski-Smith's chest. The short-barreled shotgun was modified with a cut stock and barrel, both covered with electrical tape.  During the search of Briski-Smith’s residence, officers located a Marlin, semiautomatic, .22-caliber rifle, an empty magazine for a semiautomatic firearm, a .45-caliber muzzle loader, and 17 rounds of various ammunition. 

Briski-Smith pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel to one count of unlawfully possessing an unregistered firearm. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled for a later date.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Minneapolis Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bejar is prosecuting the case.

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St. Paul Field Division