Operation Flip the Switch launched to combat illegal machine gun conversion devices

JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBMA) — U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson announced “Operation Flip the Switch.” The initiative aims to combat illegal machine gun conversion devices, also known as “switches.”

The ATF demonstrated firing the Glock switch-action firearm, admitting that hitting the target would not be accurate.

The initiative, which was announced to curb the sale of illegal devices, consists of several elements.

“We are prioritizing these criminal cases,” Escalona said.

Possession or possession of the switch is a federal crime punishable by up to ten years in prison.

“I would encourage the United States Attorney and anyone who is listening to put them away for 10 years because they just want to hurt people,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin.

As part of Operation Flip the Switch, additional training and awareness-raising activities will also take place for officers.

“ATF will work with BPD, the sheriff’s office and other agencies in our county to make sure all officers know about these devices, what they are looking for and who to call if they find them,” Escalona said.

The initiative has partners at the local, state and federal levels and aims to prosecute those who possess, manufacture or sell the switches.

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A special emphasis was placed on ensuring that anyone who knows someone who has a Switch or is using a 3D printer to make one should report it.

“You don’t have to testify. You just have to report it and we’ll take care of the rest,” Escalona said.

By calling Crime Stoppers you can report it anonymously and receive a reward for doing so.

“It could be anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the importance of the information you provide us,” said Frank Barefield of Crime Stoppers.

You can contact Crime Stoppers by calling 205-254-7777.

Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond and Mayor Woodfin noted that crime in the city has declined this year, with the exception of homicides.

Thurmond noted that nearly 1,000 guns have been taken off the streets this year. He said officers are doing what they can. Thurmond said the department sees an increase in crimes related to these modifications in 2024.

“If we can get this under control, we can impact the homicide rate and make Birmingham a safer city for everyone,” Thurmond said.

Thurmond said he believes an automatic weapon was used in the weekend shooting.