In recent years, law enforcement agencies across the U.S. have observed a troubling trend: the rapid increase in machine gun conversion devices, often referred to as “Glock switches.” These devices, known in technical terms as machine gun conversion devices (MCDs), have been surging in popularity among criminals, posing a serious threat to public safety and to the officers who serve and protect our communities. According to a 2023 report by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), law enforcement seized 5,454 firearms equipped with MCDs between 2017 and 2021—a staggering 570% increase in just five years. This alarming rise has prompted a coordinated response from federal and local law enforcement agencies, with advanced technologies from private sector innovators like CGIT contributing to the solution.
What Are Glock Switches and Why Are They Dangerous?
Glock switches or MCDs are small devices—sometimes made of plastic or metal—that can be easily attached to standard firearms, converting them into fully automatic weapons. The appeal for criminals is clear: with one simple modification, a handgun or rifle can now fire hundreds of bullets in mere seconds. This rapid-fire capability is highly dangerous, increasing the risk of unintended casualties due to the sheer volume of bullets sprayed in a short timeframe.
A crucial element that compounds the danger of switches is their accessibility. As noted in the ATF report, these devices are readily available on the internet, where they can be purchased for as little as $100, or even manufactured at home with the help of a 3D printer. They’re often disguised under various street names, such as “Glock switches” or Giggle Switches,” yet they all serve the same purpose—converting a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic machine gun. This transformation is as simple as attaching a small part to a gun and as dangerous as enabling a criminal to empty a 30-round magazine in less than three seconds.
In the same ATF report, the dangers of Glock switches are highlighted in a real-world example. During a demonstration, a trained ATF agent was able to place accurate shots with a semi-automatic Glock. However, once the Glock switch was activated, it became nearly impossible for the agent to control the recoil, causing bullets to spray across a wide area, increasing the likelihood of collateral damage. This shows how, even in skilled hands, these devices can turn deadly, increasing the risk for everyone within range.
The DOJ’s Response: An Aggressive Stance Against MCD Proliferation
In a recent address, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco discussed the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) commitment to tackling this threat head-on. Speaking to a coalition of law enforcement, academic, and private sector partners, Monaco emphasized the urgent need to get these devices off the streets, stating, “The Department of Justice has no higher priority than keeping our communities safe.” She outlined a comprehensive strategy for addressing the problem, which includes several key components.
The Action Network to Terminate Illegal Machine Gun Conversion Devices (ANTI-MCD): This new DOJ initiative aims to coordinate resources across federal law enforcement agencies to track and dismantle the networks supplying Glock switches. The ANTI-MCD Committee, co-chaired by the ATF and a U.S. Attorney, will work to identify and implement best practices across the country.
National MCD Training Initiative: The ATF, in collaboration with the Bureau of Justice Assistance, has developed a training program for law enforcement officers and prosecutors. This initiative ensures that front-line officers can recognize MCDs and understand the latest enforcement methods to counteract them. As Monaco stated, this training is crucial, given that “the design and distribution networks for MCDs are evolving rapidly.”
Operation Texas Kill Switch, spearheaded by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across Texas, serves as a model for state and local collaboration. By focusing on prosecuting MCD-related offenses and training local police to identify these devices, Operation Texas Kill Switch has already seen success, with a significant increase in federal prosecutions leading to reduced usage of Glock switches on the streets.
As Deputy Attorney General Monaco emphasized, the proliferation of MCDs represents an evolving threat that requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. The DOJ’s strategy involves not only law enforcement but also private sector partnerships, with Monaco calling on technology leaders to help curb the spread of Glock switches by identifying new avenues for regulation and oversight.
How CGIT’s FireFLY Technology Can Help: Detecting Glock Switch Usage in Real-Time
While the DOJ is mobilizing federal resources to confront the MCD threat, technological innovations from companies like Crime Gun Intelligence Technologies (CGIT) are playing an equally crucial role. CGIT’s FireFLY gunshot detection/geolocation system is designed to provide law enforcement with real-time data on gunfire incidents, offering a unique advantage when it comes to identifying the use of illegally modified MCD’s.
FireFLY’s advanced sensors can detect the distinct rapid-fire sound pattern associated with Glock switches, alerting law enforcement in real time to the use of these devices. This ability to instantly recognize and report MCD usage is invaluable for police officers responding to active shooter situations or patrolling high-risk areas. It allows them to quickly gauge the threat level and adapt their response strategies, accordingly, increasing their safety and reducing response times.
Moreover, the data collected by FireFLY can be used in conjunction with national crime gun intelligence networks like NIBIN (National Integrated Ballistic Information Network), allowing law enforcement to link multiple incidents involving MCDs across different jurisdictions. By tracking these devices and the incidents in which they’re used, CGIT’s technology contributes to a broader understanding of how MCDs impact communities and provides a data-driven foundation for DOJ initiatives like the ANTI-MCD Committee.
FireFLY’s role extends beyond detection and into prevention. By equipping law enforcement with accurate, timely information on the use of illegally modified firearms, and FireFLY not only helps as a tool to apprehend those using Glock switches but also acts as a deterrent. Criminals are less likely to employ these devices if they know that law enforcement can track their usage in real-time, increasing the risk of apprehension and prosecution.
A Collective Effort to Keep Communities Safe
The threat posed by MCDs is one that no single agency or organization can tackle alone. It requires a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, policymakers, and technology providers working together to stay ahead of this emerging danger. As Deputy Attorney General Monaco noted, the fight against MCDs is only beginning, but initiatives like the ANTI-MCD Committee, the National MCD Training Initiative, and collaborative efforts like Operation Texas Kill Switch represent significant steps forward.
Innovations from private-sector leaders like CGIT amplify these efforts by providing law enforcement with tools that offer real-time data and intelligence on Glock switch usage. By combining the DOJ’s policy-driven tactics with CGIT’s cutting-edge technology, we can create safer communities and reduce the threat posed by these dangerous devices.
As the battle against MCD and other illegal firearm modifications continues, the collaborative spirit between government, academia, and the private sector remains crucial. Through coordinated efforts, public awareness, and innovative solutions, we can work toward a future where MCD are less prevalent, and our communities are safer.
Join Us in the Fight Against Illegal Firearm Modifications
Protecting our communities is a shared responsibility. At CGIT, we’re dedicated to equipping law enforcement agencies with advanced solutions like FireFLY to help detect the use of Glock switches and other illegal modifications. If you’re a public safety professional, event organizer, or community leader interested in learning more about how FireFLY can support security in your area, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.
Together, we can stay a step ahead of emerging threats and work toward a safer, more secure future. Contact CGIT today to find out how you can enhance your community’s safety with cutting-edge gunshot detection technology.