Document Type
Report
Publication Date
8-2026
Abstract
On December 9th, 2021, Andrew Scott Pierson pleaded guilty to charges related to his key role within an arms trafficking ring which smuggled ghost guns to Cartel de Noreste (CDN) and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).1 Ghost guns are un-serialized firearms that are put together by components purchased either as a kit or as separate pieces. The operation involved Pierson and his close relatives and friends in a multi-state operation. Pierson and his network purchased the gun parts domestically in the United States across multiple states, made modifications, smuggled them across the US-Mexico border to finish construction, then sold the guns to cartels. After this, the proceeds were funneled back across the border into multiple bank accounts under several different names, identities, and fictitious businesses.
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Recommended Citation
Stigge, Collin and Moelter, Isaac J., "Cartel Violence Fueled by Ghost Guns: A React Case Study" (2026). Reports, Projects, and Research. 173.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/ncitereportsresearch/173