Brazilian Man Sentenced for Unlawful Firearm Sales in Worcester

Joao Vitor Dos Santos Goncalves Pimenta sold over a dozen guns without a license.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 21-year-old Brazilian man living unlawfully in Worcester, Massachusetts was sentenced to 27 months in prison for selling more than a dozen firearms without a license between July and September 2024. Joao Vitor Dos Santos Goncalves Pimenta pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and will be subject to deportation upon release.

Why it matters

Unlawful firearm sales and the proliferation of illegal guns pose serious public safety risks in communities. This case highlights the need for stricter enforcement and oversight of gun sales and ownership, especially involving individuals residing in the country unlawfully.

The details

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Massachusetts, Goncalves Pimenta sold 14 firearms, including pistols, AR-15 style rifles, and large capacity magazines, in exchange for cash over a three-month period in 2024 without having the required license to deal firearms.

  • Between July and September 2024, Goncalves Pimenta sold the firearms.
  • In August 2025, Goncalves Pimenta pleaded guilty to the charges.

The players

Joao Vitor Dos Santos Goncalves Pimenta

A 21-year-old Brazilian man who was living unlawfully in Worcester, Massachusetts and was sentenced to 27 months in prison for selling over a dozen firearms without a license.

U.S. Attorney's Office in Massachusetts

The federal prosecutor's office that handled the case against Goncalves Pimenta.

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What’s next

Upon release from prison, Goncalves Pimenta will be subject to deportation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger regulation and enforcement around illegal firearm sales, especially involving individuals residing in the country unlawfully, in order to improve public safety in local communities.