Feds order Shawano gun dealer to stop sales

SHAWANO - After 12 years in business, Shawano Gun and Loan could soon be done selling guns.

According to federal court records, it's because of repeated compliance violations that started as soon as the store opened.

Since 1999 agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms have conducted three separate inspections of Shawano Gun and Loan. The inspections found more than 180 gun sale records that were either missing or incomplete.

ATF agents also reported the store knowingly allowed straw purchases. That's when someone with a clean record buys a gun for someone who would not pass a background check.

The owner of the store, Timothy Backes, and his attorney were not available for an interview with FOX 11 for this story. Though, when Backes was interviewed by ATF agents, he told them the violations were accidental.

Federal authorities, however, say it doesn't matter. In an August court filing, federal prosecutors argued Backes' repeated violations show "disregard or indifference to the law."

That's why the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms has moved to revoke the store's license. The agency told the U.S. Attorney's Office in Milwaukee that Shawano Gun and Loan must stop selling guns by September 18.

The store has filed a court motion to have that order put on hold.

However, federal prosecutors say having a license to sell firearms is a privilege, not a right.

It's been three years since the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive first notified Shawano Gun and Loan that its license was being revoked. But, the agency has allowed the dealer to stay in business while it appeals the revocation.