ATF Trains Local Law Enforcement On How To Identify Ghost Guns

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — ATF officials are training law enforcement on how to identify and investigate ‘ghost guns.’

“Essentially they’re just like any other firearms. They look like any other firearms and the distinct difference is ghost guns are not required to have a serial number on it,” ATF special agent Anthony Spotswood said. 

Ghost guns which can be made with the help of 3D printer don’t have a serial number and are essentially untraceable. 

ATF special agent Anthony Spotswood said the agency has recovered hundreds of them in the last few years.

“Here in North Carolina back in 2021 we were one of 10 states that were in the top for recovery of ghost guns. In fact we recovered around 400, but that number doubled in 2022 and here in 2023 it’s around that same number,” Spotswood said. 

“They’re also finding tools that  can turn a semi-automatic gun into a fully automatic weapon.

They’re easily accessible and can be overlooked during an arrest. 

“You can find them online in some kits. In fact you can print some of these ghost guns with a common 3D printer that you can buy at any store,” Spotswood said. 

Spotswood said that’s why it’s so important to educate officers on what to look for and what to do if they find it.

“We certainly want to make sure that firearms are in the right hands and when they fall in the wrong hands we want to do whatever we can to make sure that we bring those individuals to justice.”