Micah Moore, a 31-year-old resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, has been handed a 7-year and 6-month federal prison sentence after admitting guilt to possession of a machine gun. This case highlights the rising concern over devices like the “Glock switch,” particularly those manufactured using 3D printers, and their implications for gun violence.
Court documents reveal that on July 18, 2022, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) executed a search warrant at Moore’s Indianapolis residence. During the search of the dining room, investigators discovered two machinegun conversion devices, commonly known as “Glock Switches.” Additionally, police found three auto-sears, designed to function as machinegun conversion devices when installed on a semiautomatic rifle.
These machinegun conversion devices, frequently referred to as “Glock switches” or “auto-sears,” are designed to transform standard semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic machineguns. Crucially, under federal law, these conversion devices are classified as machineguns themselves, even without being installed in a firearm. Possession or sale of these devices is almost universally illegal.
In a recorded interview, Moore confessed to investigators that he was engaged in the production and sale of these switches and auto sears, utilizing a 3D printer for manufacturing. Moore also admitted to reselling firearms acquired from individuals on the street. Further investigation and court evidence revealed that Moore’s illegal activities extended beyond firearm modifications. He was also manufacturing counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl.
“Criminals who introduce illegal machineguns into our communities are exacerbating the already critical issue of gun violence impacting too many families,” stated Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The possession and distribution of these incredibly dangerous devices constitute serious federal crimes punishable by significant prison time. Our office remains committed to collaborating with the ATF, IMPD, and our law enforcement partners to remove illegal machineguns from our neighborhoods and hold gun traffickers accountable.”
Daryl McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division, emphasized the escalating danger posed by these devices: “The increasing prevalence of machine gun conversion devices adds an even more lethal dimension to firearm violence within our communities. These devices, due to their rapid firing rate and reduced controllability, significantly amplify the risk to both innocent bystanders and law enforcement personnel. The ATF will continue its collaborative efforts with our partners to eliminate these devices from our streets.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and IMPD jointly conducted the investigation in this case. U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker presided over the sentencing. In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Barker mandated that Moore be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release and pay a $750 fine.
U.S. Attorney Myers expressed gratitude to Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who served as the prosecutor in this case.
This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive initiative uniting law enforcement at all levels with the communities they serve to combat violent crime and gun violence, and to enhance neighborhood safety. Launched on May 26, 2021, the Department’s violent crime reduction strategy strengthens PSN through core principles: fostering community trust and legitimacy, supporting community-based violence prevention organizations, establishing focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and evaluating outcomes.
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