Leo Hamel, a well-known San Diego jeweler, was sentenced to probation and fined for aiding and abetting a former San Diego County sheriff’s captain in a gun trafficking operation.
Leo Hamel, the owner of Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, found himself entangled in a legal situation that significantly impacted his reputation and business. In February 2021, he pleaded guilty to a federal charge of aiding and abetting the operation. The case revolved around the former San Diego County sheriff’s captain, Marco Garmo, who was engaging in the illegal purchase and sale of firearms. Hamel admitted to purchasing firearms from Garmo that he was not allowed to buy directly from a manufacturer or dealer.
The investigation revealed that Garmo was using his position to circumvent California’s strict gun laws, and Hamel was among several individuals who benefited from this scheme. As part of his plea agreement, Hamel acknowledged that he had purchased several guns from Garmo over the course of six years.
In the aftermath of his guilty plea, Hamel was sentenced to one year of probation and was ordered to pay a $10,000 fine. Additionally, he was required to perform 100 hours of community service. This incident brought significant attention to the illegal gun trade and the importance of upholding the law, even by those in positions of authority. Leo Hamel’s case serves as a reminder of the consequences of participating in unlawful activities, regardless of one’s standing in the community.