Fort Wayne, Ind. – Authorities in Fort Wayne are issuing a strong message about the dangers and legal risks of possessing machine gun conversion devices (MCDs), even if they are not attached to firearms. The Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) emphasizes that simply having one of these devices, which turn regular handguns into fully automatic weapons, is a serious felony charge.
The Dangers of “Glock Switches” and “Auto Sears”
The devices, commonly referred to as “Glock switches” or “auto sears,” can quickly transform a semi-automatic handgun into a machine gun. Sgt. Marc Deshaies from FWPD describes the device as a small piece, about the size of a dime or a quarter, that attaches to the tail-end of a Glock pistol. “Just having that piece in your hand, without even connecting it to a gun, is a felony,” Deshaies warned.
This transformation is not minor; it fundamentally changes the firearm’s operation. A standard pistol requires the trigger to be pulled each time a round is fired. However, an MCD-equipped weapon continues to fire as long as the trigger is held down, making it capable of releasing multiple rounds per second.
Rise in Juvenile Possession of Conversion Devices
Recent cases are bringing to light a troubling trend: MCDs are increasingly found in the possession of juveniles. Just last week, a 15-year-old was apprehended with a Glock switch after a shooting incident. Deshaies stresses that young people, still developing their judgment and decision-making skills, may not fully grasp the weight of carrying such dangerous devices. “Juveniles don’t always understand the severe consequences of their actions,” he remarked, noting that the risks of these devices extend far beyond just legal implications.
The situation calls for awareness at all levels. Law enforcement has been actively reaching out to local schools, urging educators to stay vigilant. However, Deshaies points out that parents also play a crucial role, especially given the accessibility of 3D printers that can manufacture these devices cheaply and easily.
The Role of 3D Printing in Weapon Modification
As technology advances, the means to produce MCDs have become more accessible. Many devices are created with 3D printers, an option that is now within reach for average households. 3D printers, which used to be prohibitively expensive, have dropped significantly in price, making it easier for individuals, including teens, to produce weapon-modifying devices. Deshaies explains that “privatized 3D printers” are now in the hands of many people, adding that parents should be aware of this possibility in their homes.
The FWPD has taken steps to inform the public about the risks associated with this technology. Their concern is not limited to the criminal aspect but extends to the broader safety implications within communities, especially among young people.
| Device | Legal Status | Modification Capability |
|---|---|---|
| Glock Switch | Felony if possessed, even unattached | Converts a semi-automatic Glock into a fully automatic firearm |
| Auto Sear | Felony if possessed, even unattached | Converts various semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic firearms |
Community Involvement and Preventative Measures
With the growing presence of MCDs in juvenile circles, the police urge community members to stay alert. Schools, families, and local organizations are called to action in recognizing and reporting any signs of gun modification activities. The FWPD is actively collaborating with educational institutions to promote awareness and prevent the spread of MCDs among students.
The role of parents is emphasized by law enforcement, especially in households where 3D printing equipment is available. Deshaies advises that community awareness, combined with proactive measures, can be effective in reducing the risk of youth accessing and misusing these illegal devices.
- Parents and guardians should:
- Be aware of 3D printing capabilities in the home.
- Educate teens on the legal and safety risks of MCDs.
- Communicate with school officials on gun safety.
Addressing the Consequences of Machine Gun Conversions
Possession of an MCD carries heavy penalties, often with long-term consequences. For juveniles, this can mean life-altering charges and the prospect of being tried in adult court, depending on the severity of the offense. Authorities are concerned about the implications for both public safety and the futures of those involved.
In the Fort Wayne area, gun crime, particularly among younger residents, has been a point of focus. Police say MCDs could escalate an already challenging situation by increasing the potential for gun violence. For local law enforcement, cracking down on these devices is about more than just enforcing the law; it’s about protecting the community from the risks posed by a single, powerful modification
