Convicted Felon in Central Georgia Tried to Buy Guns Seven Times, Court Records Show

FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Federal agents say a Central Georgia man tried to buy a gun seven times this year despite knowing he was legally barred from owning one.

According to court records, Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) visited 46-year-old Randy Tyrone Fuller at his Fort Valley home after learning he had made five unsuccessful attempts to purchase firearms. Each time, the background check system flagged his prior felony convictions, resulting in denials.

Agents say they made multiple efforts to warn Fuller that, as a convicted felon, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing or purchasing a firearm. They mailed him a letter—which he signed for—and personally explained the restrictions during an in-person visit.

Despite those warnings, investigators say Fuller attempted to buy two more firearms just two days later, bringing his total to seven denied purchases.

Fuller was indicted last Monday on federal charges of making false statements during the acquisition of a firearm. Prosecutors allege he falsely checked “no” when asked on the federal purchase form if he had ever been convicted of a felony.

Court documents show Fuller has two prior felony convictions: aggravated assault on a peace officer in 2017 and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 2015.

Investigators say Fuller began trying to buy firearms in March 2025, first at Bass Pro Shops in Macon, followed by Academy Sports in Warner Robins, a gun shop in Butler, and later a store in Locust Grove. All seven transactions were denied after the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) flagged his record.

After his final two attempts in late October, federal prosecutors moved forward with charges. A judge has ruled there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed but has ordered a mental health evaluation to determine Fuller’s competency to stand trial.

It’s unclear when that evaluation will be completed or when Fuller will next appear in court.