LAPD officer charged in attempt to export handguns

LOS ANGELES (AP) - A Los Angeles police officer has been indicted for attempting to illegally export guns to his security firm in Belize. Johnny Augustus Baltazar surrendered to authorities Monday and was scheduled to appear in federal court.

Prosecutors say Baltazar attempted to illegally ship a container packed with 10 handguns and 1,500 rounds of ammunition to Belize from the Los Angeles International Airport. His indictment follows a probe by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Baltazar's attorney Arthur Avazian says he has not read the indictment and can't comment. Baltazar, who is on administrative leave from the Police Department, is charged with unlawful interstate transportation of a firearm and ammunition.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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