Brian Hindman, a 49-year-old resident of Madera, was taken into custody on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing counterfeit U.S. Postal Service keys, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Eric Grant.
Authorities stated that Hindman was arrested on July 25, 2025, after arriving at a casino parking lot. Law enforcement officers apprehended him based on an outstanding state warrant related to burglary. During the arrest, police found Hindman with a loaded 9 mm Ruger pistol. Due to previous felony convictions that resulted in more than four years served in state prison, Hindman is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Officers also discovered six counterfeit U.S. Postal Service keys, which are often used by individuals to steal mail. Additionally, several driver’s licenses and debit cards bearing other people’s names were found in his possession.
“This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.”
If convicted, Hindman could face up to 15 years in prison for the firearm charge and up to 10 years for possessing counterfeit postal keys. He may also be subject to a fine as high as $250,000. Sentencing would ultimately be determined by the court based on statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines that consider various circumstances.
“The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”
