Law enforcement respond to new federal 'Ghost Gun' regulations - WBNG

In recent years, “Ghost Guns” have been growing in popularity and showing up in investigations across the country, and Broome County is no different.

BINGHAMTON (WBNG) -- In recent years, “Ghost Guns” have been growing in popularity and showing up in investigations across the country, and Broome County is no different.

Now, President Biden is taking action.

“If you commit a crime with a ghost gun, expect federal prosecution,” Biden said Monday afternoon.

Biden announced finalization of a rule banning the sales of “ghost guns” - firearms that can be assembled at home from pieces bought online.

“The issue that this creates with law enforcement is that these guns are not traceable,” Broome County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Kate Newcomb told 12 News.

These firearms are not stamped with serial numbers, meaning they can’t be tracked back to an owner or manufacturer.

“The problem is that the people who can’t pass a background check or don’t want anyone to know that they are armed with a weapon - they’re the ones who are using these means to buy the ghost guns,” said Newcomb.

Newcomb said ghost guns have been popping up across Broome County. And while the numbers are low compared to bigger cities across the country, they’re causing problems with law enforcement investigations.

“From law enforcement’s perspective, it’s troubling that there are a number of ghost guns out on the streets,” said Newcomb. “They’re being carried by people who are circumventing the system and that’s problematic and troubling.”

This is because it all comes down to one thing - these guns are not traceable without a serial number.

New federal regulations for these firearms will require serial numbers to be stamped on all existing and new ghost guns, and will require background checks for those who attempt to purchase them.

“Any measure that can be taken to reach that goal of protecting and serving the community is always a move in the right direction,” said Newcomb.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office said anyone found with a ghost gun will be charged.

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source: https://www.wbng.com/2022/04/12/law-enforcement-respond-new-federal-ghost-gun-regulations/

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