Feds dismantle alleged gun trafficking ring funneling weapons to Chicago
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Federal authorities have busted a firearms smuggling ring that prosecutors say funneled dozens of guns from Georgia to Chicago street gangs, with some guns later linked to child murder and other violent crimes.
Five people were charged in a 23-count federal indictment unsealed this month in the Middle District of Georgia following a Homeland Security Task Force investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Prosecutors said Anthony Edmond and Rafael Enriquez face the most serious charges, including conspiracy involving firearms trafficking, machine gun and drug trafficking. Both face a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted, while three other defendants also face federal firearms conspiracy charges.
According to court documents, Edmond is allegedly a member of the Chicago-based Black Disciples gang and an associate of another Chicago street gang known as the Conservative Vice Lords.
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Anthony Edmond, also known as “Chapo,” is accused of helping organize a firearms trafficking ring that allegedly funneled guns from Georgia to Chicago street gangs. (Ministry of Justice)
According to prosecutors, Edmond was directed by his associates to purchase firearms from gun stores in Georgia, which were then transported and distributed to gang members in the Chicago area.
Prosecutors allege Edmond purchased dozens of firearms from gun stores in Georgia between 2020 and 2021; These include at least 22 firearms over a 10-month period.
Some of these firearms were allegedly converted into fully automatic weapons and then used in numerous violent crimes, according to the indictment.
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Federal prosecutors allege an interstate firearms smuggling ring funneled guns from Georgia to Chicago street gangs, some of which were later linked to violent crimes. (Ministry of Justice)
Prosecutors also allege Edmond purchased ammunition, extended magazines and drum magazines, as well as test-fired firearms before turning them over.
Edmond is also accused of making multiple trips from Georgia to Illinois to deliver firearms to gang members in Chicago.
Police seized 20 firearms allegedly purchased by Edmond in three states between 2021 and 2026, authorities said.
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Authorities announced charges have been filed against five people accused of supplying firearms to Chicago street gangs in an alleged smuggling conspiracy. (Ministry of Justice)
The Chicago Police Department seized a Glock pistol from the bedroom of a known juvenile gang member in 2021, according to prosecutors. Forensic tests later linked the firearm to three separate violent crimes.
Prosecutors allege the gun was used in a 2021 murder in Chicago and the later shooting of a rival gang member. Investigators said Edmond purchased the firearm in Georgia just 36 days before it was allegedly used in the murder.
