Authorities in Pennsylvania have announced serious charges against a Philadelphia man accused of trafficking “ghost guns,” which are firearms lacking serial numbers. This case follows a comprehensive investigation conducted by state and federal agencies over several months. The accused, 25-year-old Zairre Hamlett, faces six felony charges related to the illegal transfer and manufacture of firearms.
The announcement was made by Dave Sunday, who stated that Hamlett was arraigned by Philadelphia police, with bail set at $600,000. Investigators allege that Hamlett was involved in numerous illegal sales of these unserialized firearms since October 2023. Surveillance operations reportedly captured multiple transactions involving five pistols, all lacking serial numbers, and two of which were equipped with illegal machine-gun conversion switches.
Details of the Investigation
A search warrant executed at Hamlett’s residence on Dauphin Street revealed additional firearms, including a 3D-printed privately made firearm, ammunition, and materials consistent with at-home firearm manufacturing. The authorities assert that ghost guns represent a significant public safety threat, designed to evade law enforcement tracking and accountability.
Federal and local officials expressed their commitment to tackling this issue. Representatives from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to dismantle illegal firearms pipelines before these weapons can be used in violent crimes. The investigation also involved the Drug Enforcement Administration, highlighting the connections between illegal firearms trafficking and broader criminal networks.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Response
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel stated that every firearm removed from circulation prevents a potential act of violence. Additionally, Abington Township Police Chief Patrick Molloy described the operation as a significant trafficking effort that was disrupted through ongoing interagency cooperation.
The prosecution of Hamlett will be handled by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Drug Strike Force Section. It is important to note that all charges against him are allegations at this stage. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
The coordinated approach taken by law enforcement underscores a growing recognition of the dangers posed by ghost guns and the necessity for a unified strategy in combatting firearms trafficking.
