The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives released data showing that over 68,000 illegally trafficked firearms in the U.S. came through unlicensed dealers between 2017 and 2021. This accounts for 54% of all illegally trafficked guns and was used in 368 shooting cases. The lack of background checks for these transactions makes it harder for federal agents to trace the weapon back to its original buyer. The report, ordered by Attorney General Merrick Garland, marks the first comprehensive analysis of firearm trafficking investigations in over two decades.
A significant portion of firearm-trafficking cases investigated by the ATF involved straw purchases, where someone buys a gun for a person who can’t legally obtain it themselves. In almost 60% of cases where investigators could determine the recipient’s background, it was revealed that they had prior felony convictions. Furthermore, trafficked firearms were used in additional crimes in almost 25% of cases, including over 260 murders and 220 attempted murders. ATF Director Steve Dettelbach emphasized that those who illegally traffic firearms are ultimately responsible for the violence that results from arming violent individuals.
The average number of guns trafficked per case was found to be 16, with those obtained through unlicensed dealers buying an average of 20 weapons. This is compared to the average of 11 guns for straw buyers. In response to these findings, the Biden administration has proposed a rule that would require more gun sellers to obtain licenses and conduct background checks. Although the rule targets sellers engaged in firearm sales as a business, gun-rights groups have raised concerns that it could impact individuals who occasionally sell their own firearms. The proposed rule is estimated to affect between 24,500 to 328,000 sellers.
The report underscores the link between illegally trafficked firearms and violence in the U.S. It highlights the critical need for measures to address loopholes in the system that allow guns to flow into the illegal market. The lack of documentation for sales made by unlicensed dealers poses a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies in tracking the origin of these weapons. By cracking down on gun trafficking and strengthening background check regulations, the government aims to reduce gun-related crimes and prevent firearms from getting into the hands of dangerous individuals.
The data presented in the report sheds light on the impact of unregulated gun sales and the implications for public safety. It reveals the extent to which illegally trafficked firearms are linked to violent crimes, including homicides and attempted murders. The findings underscore the urgency of implementing stricter measures to curb gun trafficking and ensure that firearms are not easily accessible to individuals with criminal histories. By addressing the gaps in the current system, authorities can work towards preventing the illegal flow of guns and enhancing public safety in communities across the country.
