Range USA, a gun retailer chain founded in 2012, has continued to operate several stores despite repeated federal violations related to firearms sales, according to records obtained by ProPublica. The company was cited multiple times by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for failing to follow protocols designed to prevent illegal gun sales. These issues came under renewed scrutiny after a Chicago police officer, John Bartholomew, was shot and killed on April 25 with a firearm originally purchased through an illegal transaction at Range USA’s Merrillville, Indiana location.
The topic is significant because it highlights ongoing concerns about compliance failures among large-scale gun retailers and the potential consequences for public safety. The recent killing of Officer Bartholomew is one example of how guns sold through questionable transactions can end up being used in violent crimes.
Records show that between 2020 and 2024, federal authorities recommended revoking licenses at three other Range USA locations due to similar violations. Despite these recommendations and some fines paid by the company, all affected stores remain open. In response to ATF findings regarding missing background checks or falsified documents during sales—such as using expired permits or failing background checks—Range USA managers have often blamed employee mistakes or outdated systems while promising improvements.
The investigation into Bartholomew’s death revealed that the weapon used was allegedly purchased two years prior by Olivia Burgos at the Merrillville store through a straw sale—a practice where someone buys a gun on behalf of another person who is prohibited from owning firearms. Burgos now faces charges for making false statements during the purchase process.
Legal actions against Range USA have included lawsuits alleging negligence in other straw sale cases linked to its Illinois locations. However, attorneys for the company argue that employees were unaware of criminal intent and cite protections under federal law against liability for harm caused by guns sold at their stores.
Recent changes in ATF policy have also drawn attention. Under President Joe Biden’s administration, stricter enforcement led to more license revocation recommendations; however, these measures were rolled back last year under new leadership favoring less stringent penalties for administrative errors made in good faith. ATF Director Robert Cekada said: “We are proposing to remove unnecessary hurdles that were standing in the way of law-abiding citizens and businesses,” adding that public safety remains a top priority: “ATF remains the greatest friend to state and local law enforcement officers, and we believe that these rules will not negatively impact public safety.”
While industry groups maintain they are committed to keeping firearms out of criminals’ hands through education and training programs for retailers, critics such as Professor Daniel Webster warn that loosening oversight could send “a dangerous signal” about priorities regarding illegal gun trafficking.
