Teenager arrested for making weapons with 3D printer

A recent police operation at a Detroit residence may have prevented countless “ghost guns,” also known as ghost weapons, from ending up on the streets after an illegal 3D-printed manufacturing facility was dismantled.

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“Snitched” on a delivery from China

This operation was the result of a joint investigative effort by the Detroit Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security, which began after a package originating from China was intercepted. The contents of the package turned out to be a Glock trigger switch, a mechanism capable of modifying a semi-automatic weapon to fire in full automatic mode.

As reported by Commander Ryan Connor, who is part of the Detroit Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit, law enforcement chose to allow the package to be delivered to the intended address — located at 20161 Algin Street — before proceeding with a search warrant-authorized raid on the home last Wednesday.

Neighbor Cheron Barton witnessed the entire scene unfold right outside her own home. She described the massive arrival of authorities, mentioning a large black police vehicle, accompanied by a regular police car and approximately three unmarked cars. Barton watched as the officers removed various items from the property.I saw them bringing out many objects from the house, it looked serious“, she commented.

14-year-old teenager participated in the manufacture of “ghost guns”

The Detroit Police Department was successful in seizing significant evidence during the operation: “Approximately twelve pistol lower parts and five rifle lower parts were found,” explained Commander Connor.

These parts correspond to the main section of the weapon, which includes the firing mechanism. In addition, a Glock switch that had been produced through 3D printing was identified and confiscated, along with several tools that would be used in the assembly process of these weapons.

While owning a 3D printer itself is not a legal offense, manufacturing firearms with the intention of selling them is considered an illicit activity, and police suspect that was exactly the purpose of this clandestine operation.

In addition to dismantling the weapons manufacturing operation, authorities arrested a 14-year-old who is now facing firearms-related charges.”This raises some worrying questions.“Connor said. He pondered the young people’s discernment, their true intentions and whether they have the maturity to handle such weapons.

Young man to face federal charges

Since the case involves the Department of Homeland Security, it is likely that this young man will face federal charges in the very near future.

Cheron Barton expressed her concerns about the safety of children in the neighborhood, stressing that she would never allow her children to be involved in or even near such activities.If I had known about these things, my children wouldn’t have, you know, even associated with them.“, she said.

To enlighten the public, police released a photograph on Thursday night, showing the items seized inside the residence.

Source: CBS News