Philly 'Ghost Gun' Trafficker Busted In Joint Investigation: PA Attorney General

PHILADELPHIA — State authorities Thursday announced charges against a Philadelphia gun runner who trafficked untraceable guns, also known as "ghost guns."

According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday Zairre Hamlett, 25, was charged by Philadelphia police with six felonies, including illegal transfers of firearms. He was arraigned and bail was set at $600,000.

The charges stem from a joint investigation between the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Abington Township Police, and Philadelphia Police, the AG's office said.

Authorities said Hamlett was trafficking firearms without serial numbers.

In announcing the charges, authorities shared photos of the firearms and magazines in question, which included a submachine gun with an extended magazine, a long gun, a Luger-style pistol, a 9mm Adams-style handgun, and more.

Investigators said Hamlett made numerous transactions of firearms without serial numbers in and around Philadelphia. Investigators surveilled sales of five pistols — all ghost guns — since October, including two with illegal machine gun conversion switches.

During a search warrant execution at Hamlett’s Dauphin Street home, officials found other firearms, including a 3-D printed privately-made firearm, ammunition, and additional materials to print firearms at home.

"Every ghost gun and every conversion switch taken off our streets represents lives that may have been saved," Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel said. "This investigation shows exactly how dangerous these trafficking operations are — and why coordinated work between the Philadelphia Police Department, ATF, the Attorney General’s Office, and our local partners is so critical. We will continue to aggressively pursue anyone who manufactures, sells, or distributes illegal firearms that put our neighborhoods at risk."

"This case demonstrates how ATF partners with state and local law enforcement to investigate, identify, and prosecute dangerous offenders," Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division, said. "Working together, we will continue to protect our communities to prevent violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms."