How does one deal with a corrupt FFL??

Artesia

My relative recently made a rifle purchase (Savage .243) over the internet and had it sent to a local FFL holder. He went to pick it up and while filling out the paperwork he didn't read a yes/no question properly and put the wrong answer. The FFL holder then refused to complete the transaction which is their right and he lost out. He kicked himself all the way home for not reading more carefully and losing out on shipping and FFL fees.
Here's the real problem: It's been over a month and the local FFL holder will not send the rifle back to the dealer so that my relative can get his money refunded. They keep putting him off on the phone and he is ready to pull his hair out. The dealer who shipped the rifle tried to help by calling the local FFL and was told the rifle would ship right out but it never did.
What action can my relative take against the local FFL holder that won't cause him to lose more money over this crazy situation? Note: The FFL holder was found by using Gunbroker's FFL finder.
Please bring us some wisdom on this matter [:(]. Thanks, Mike

Highball

Attempt to contact another FFL dealer in the area to intervene..perhaps to complete the transaction..and also put some pressure on the first FFL.
Then contact the Batfe..see if pressure can be brought to bear.

I have made mistakes on the form myself..and the dealer merely tears upthe sheet and I start over.

iwannausername

IANAL, but I think he bought and paid for the rifle, it is his. He may (or may not) be able to take possession of it, but that is a different matter. Even Charlie Manson should be able to buy a gun, and have it sent toa dealer, and then he should be able to sell it, send it to another dealer, etc. As long as he doesn't take possession of it...

Like Highball said, its his property, I'm sure the BATFE would like to hear about it, even if their stance is "you messed up on the paperwork, you can't be in possession of it, sell it and/or send it to some other licensed individual"

ObiWan

The FFL did not pay for the firearm. He doesn't own it. If he wants to keep it he must reimburse you full cost himself or ship it back.

You'll get the money in court.

Call BATFE local office!

jaflowers

Have your relative go back to the FFL. If the FFL still will not cooperate have your relative take out his cell phone and call the BATFE office right there in the middle of the gun shop. Make sure the FFL knows exactly what who he is calling and can hear the conversation. That will get his attention REAL quick and may get the desired result. This is what I'd do. good luck.