In a bold move, twelve states along with Washington, D.C., have issued a stern missive to firearm manufacturer Glock, urging the company to safeguard crucial documents pertaining to its pistol lineup amidst an investigation into their potential conversion into machine guns. Spearheaded by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, the letter, co-signed by legal representatives from states like Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts, amplifies concerns following Chicago’s legal action against Glock.
Chicago’s recent lawsuit alleges Glock’s awareness of a simple modification, involving an inexpensive auto sear, capable of morphing their handguns into illegal machine guns with a startling firing rate of 1,200 rounds per minute. The lawsuit accuses Glock of ramping up production and sales without rectifying the design flaw facilitating the conversion, thus endangering public safety with what the states describe as “deadly weapons” manufactured in utter disregard for societal welfare.
Addressed to Glock’s General Counsel, Carlos Guevara, the letter demands preservation of documents dating back to 1987, encompassing the company’s knowledge of the conversion process and pertinent legal frameworks, alongside financial records and promotional materials. Despite the mounting pressure, Guevara remains silent on the matter, declining immediate comment.
The gravity of Chicago’s claims underscores potential violations of state laws, prompting the states to signal potential enforcement actions pending investigation. Against this backdrop, Glock finds itself under intensified scrutiny, with the states resolutely aiming to unearth the truth behind what they term as “Glock switches” and their implications for public safety.
Chicago’s legal recourse underscores a harrowing reality, with over 1,100 Glock pistols reportedly seized in the city, all outfitted with the contentious auto sear modification. The affordability of this alteration, priced as low as $20, coupled with the prevalence of Glock pistols in criminal activities, casts a shadow over the company’s practices.
Machine guns, expressly outlawed under federal and state laws, emerge as a focal point of contention, with Illinois taking a firm stance against Glock’s alleged contribution to the proliferation of these illegal firearms. The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief, calling for stringent measures to prevent the sale and possession of easily convertible pistols, alongside damages and restitution of profits derived from their sale.
Illinois’ proactive stance reflects a broader trend, with several states enacting laws enabling legal action against firearm manufacturers and sellers implicated in endangering public safety. Despite federal protections, state legislatures wield exceptions to hold accountable entities deemed responsible for exacerbating gun violence.
As the legal saga unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Glock, as states unite in a quest for transparency and accountability, determined to safeguard communities from the perils of illicit firearm proliferation.
