A U.S. Marine Corps corporal has been charged with stealing military-grade weapons and ammunition, including a Javelin missile system, from California’s Camp Pendleton and selling them in Arizona. Cpl. Andrew Paul Amarillas, 23, pleaded not guilty last week in Phoenix to multiple federal charges, including conspiracy to commit theft, embezzlement of government property, and possession and sale of stolen ammunition. A judge ordered him held in custody pending trial.
Federal prosecutors allege Amarillas, an ammunition specialist at the School of Infantry West, stole at least one Javelin missile system, thousands of rounds of military-grade ammunition, and other weapons-related material between February 2022 and November 2025. He is accused of transporting the stolen items to Arizona, where he sold them to unnamed co-conspirators. Some of the ammunition was later purchased by undercover officers, and text messages, photos, and serial numbers tied Amarillas to the alleged theft.
Key Details from the Case
- Amarillas allegedly used his position to sign out the stolen Javelin missile system and ammunition.
- Prosecutors claim he conspired with others to sell the weapons, with some transactions involving undercover law enforcement.
- A co-conspirator had Amarillas’ number saved under the nickname “Andrew Ammo.”
- Text messages between Amarillas and a co-conspirator referenced stolen weapons, including a Javelin system.
- Some, but not all, of the stolen weapons and ammunition have been recovered.
Background and Context
Amarillas was stationed at Camp Pendleton, a major Marine Corps base near San Diego. The stolen weapons were transported to Arizona, where they were allegedly resold. The case highlights concerns about internal security at military installations and the potential for stolen military equipment to enter civilian markets.
Prosecutors have not disclosed the identities of the co-conspirators or the final buyers of the stolen weapons. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities seeking to recover any remaining stolen materials.