SHAWANO, WI- A 34-year-old man banned from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after authorities uncovered a massive stockpile of illegal weapons and ammunition at his home.
Kyle Matsche was sentenced Tuesday and will serve an additional nine years on extended supervision, according to the Clerk of Courts.
Matsche was found guilty of 16 counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, three counts of possessing a firearm silencer, and one count of possession of narcotic drugs. Prosecutors dismissed 61 other charges as part of the case.
The charges stem from a domestic disturbance that prompted police to respond to Matsche’s residence. During the initial encounter, officers arrested Matsche and found two firearms on him. They noted the weapons lacked serial numbers and appeared to be homemade or modified to avoid registration.
After learning there were more weapons in the home, investigators obtained a search warrant. Inside, they discovered an arsenal: 46 long guns, 23 handguns, 22 suppressors, a ballistic helmet, body armor, and 1,315 pounds of ammunition. Drug-related items consistent with fentanyl use were also found, according to the criminal complaint.
Authorities say the home was solely occupied by Matsche.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about homemade firearms and the risks posed when dangerous weapons fall into the hands of individuals legally barred from owning them.
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