By: Richard L. Smith
A Maryland man has admitted transporting a stolen firearm into Ocean County as part of a firearms trafficking operation that brought illegal weapons into New Jersey, according to a statement released by U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer.
"Trafficking illegal firearms poses a direct threat to the safety of our communities," Frazer said. "Vargas admitted to selling firearms, including a handgun stolen out of Texas, for his own profit.
This Office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who bring illegal weapons into New Jersey."
Federal officials said Luiz Vargas, also known as "El Biggie," 26, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner to a one-count Information charging him with transportation of a stolen firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement began investigating Vargas in January 2025 for allegedly trafficking firearms into New Jersey from locations including Texas and Maryland.
During the investigation, authorities utilized a confidential source operating under law enforcement supervision to conduct four controlled purchases from Vargas.
The transactions resulted in the seizure of eight firearms, including two semiautomatic rifles and six handguns.
Investigators said two of the handguns had been reported stolen from Texas and Colorado.
Authorities also determined that the two semiautomatic rifles lacked serial numbers or other identifiable markings.
Federal prosecutors further alleged that on at least one occasion Vargas provided cocaine to the confidential source after he was unable to complete a promised firearm transaction.
Officials said Vargas never possessed a federal license authorizing him to manufacture or sell firearms.
The charge of transporting a stolen firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 30, 2026.