The U.S. Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) revealed a plan to halt the spread of machine gun conversion devices, commonly known as âGlock switchesâ or âauto sears,â on Friday. These aftermarket parts enable legal semiautomatic firearms to function as fully automatic weapons, which contravenes existing laws.
ATF Director Steven Dettelbach and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco unveiled the initiative in Washington, attended by law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and experts from the engineering and additive manufacturing industries. Additive manufacturing, also referred to as 3D printing, involves creating items by adding layers of material, distinct from subtractive manufacturing methods like sculpting or milling.
Monaco introduced the creation of the Justice Departmentâs Action Network to Terminate Illegal Machinegun Conversion Devices (ANTI-MCD), comprising law enforcement officials and prosecutors tasked with monitoring and preventing the distribution of these devices.
Additionally, the ATF is establishing a national training program for law enforcement and prosecutors focusing on the latest advancements in 3D printing technology. To bolster enforcement efforts, all 94 U.S. Attorneyâs Offices will collaborate with local authorities and the 3D printing industry to develop strategies. For instance, “Project Switch Off” was initiated in Oklahoma City to educate local police on identifying MCDs and enforcing relevant laws.
Director Dettelbach emphasized the misuse of technology in producing MCDs, noting a 570 percent increase in seizures by police due to the proliferation of 3D printing. He highlighted the challenge of identifying these small, inconspicuous parts made from metal or plastic, stressing that mere possession of an MCD constitutes a federal offense.
Aidan Johnston from Gun Owners of America acknowledged the issue but cautioned against regulating homemade components, advocating for policies that enhance public safety and prosecute violent criminals instead. ATFâs Monaco echoed the need for collaboration between government and private sectors to combat the misuse of 3D printing technology.
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