According to a new analysis released by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), less than half of illegal gun cases are linked to black market sales, with approximately 40% involving illegal “straw” purchases. The report, which covers around 10,000 investigations from 2017 to 2021, aims to shed light on the evolving dynamics of the nation’s illegal firearms market amidst rising gun violence.
In addition to revealing the prevalence of black market activities, the study highlights the increasing role of online platforms and social media in illegal transactions, which account for about 7% of illegal sales. With the Biden administration poised to propose regulations tightening loopholes in firearms sales, this detailed report underscores the urgency of addressing the complex issues surrounding gun trafficking and its implications for public safety.
Read full story at www.seattletimes.com
