Mocobizscene- In the past two months, Acting United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross has made public announcements regarding the indictment of eleven individuals. These charges are linked to the possession of machineguns in Montgomery, Alabama. The machineguns in question were semiautomatic firearms that had been altered to function as fully automatic weapons through the installation of a machinegun conversion device.
Machinegun conversion devices, commonly referred to as “switches” or “auto sears,” are attachments designed to modify firearms so that they can operate as fully automatic weapons. These devices have become increasingly popular in recent times, presenting a significant danger to both communities and law enforcement. With the capability to discharge up to 20 rounds per second, their potential for harm is evident. It is crucial to note that according to federal law, possessing a machinegun includes possessing a conversion device alone. Those found guilty of this offense can face severe consequences, including up to ten years of imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
The rise in popularity of these conversion devices emphasizes the necessity for tighter regulations and stronger enforcement to prevent their unlawful possession and use. Law enforcement is aiming to safeguard communities from the potential risks that come with fully automatic weapons by cracking down on individuals who possess these modified firearms. The indictments of the eleven individuals in Montgomery serve as a warning to others who might be involved in similar illegal activities.
Safety is of utmost importance to both law enforcement and the general public. Efforts will persist in order to prevent the spread of illegal machine guns and their conversion devices. By ensuring that individuals are held responsible for their actions, authorities aim to discourage others from participating in criminal activities that involve these hazardous weapons.
An indictment is a mere accusation. In the eyes of the law, all defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The cases mentioned are being pursued under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that brings together law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve to combat violent crime and enhance neighborhood safety. In 2017, the Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN as a vital component of its renewed efforts to target violent criminals. This initiative mandates all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to collaborate with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies, as well as the local community, to develop effective strategies tailored to the specific locality with the aim of reducing violent crime. Key federal partners in PSN include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the United States Marshals Service (USMS), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The Montgomery Police Department, in collaboration with the ATF, spearheaded the investigations in these cases, with support from the USMS. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates, Eric M. Counts, Joel Feil, John J. Geer, III, and Justin L. Jones have been assigned the task of prosecuting these cases.
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