Packages containing illegal gun parts were shipped from China, falsely labeled with innocuous descriptions such as “necklace” or “toys.” These deceptive tactics were intended to mislead customs inspections and facilitate the illegal importation of contraband.
Many of these websites also misused trademarks from major firearm manufacturers, including Glock Inc., to falsely claim that the illegal parts, known as “switches,” were manufactured by reputable companies.
“The seizure of these domains is a critical step in disrupting the flow of dangerous contraband that threatens public safety,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy of Massachusetts.
Seized Gun Parts and Devices
As a result of the probe, law enforcement has confiscated a significant number of illegal firearms and parts. Over 700 machine gun conversion devices, 87 illegal suppressors, 59 handguns, and 46 long guns were seized.
Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division, emphasized the threat these devices pose to public safety, stating, “The proliferation of readily available devices which allow the illegal manufacturing of machine guns is a plague on our communities.”
