BUFFALO, NY (WKBW) — An autosear, or select fire switch, is a small device that can turn a semi-automatic pistol into an automatic weapon.
Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia said, “It’s a small piece, maybe a quarter the size.” Round shooting, and you have a fully automatic shooting weapon.
Gramaglia said these highly dangerous devices were popping up all over the city.
“I think they’re starting to grow in popularity. I don’t want to use that term. Last year, we accepted about 10 people in 2022. We’re seeing them on social media,” Gramaglia said.
Erie County District Attorney John Flynn said owning Oat Shear means a plea bargain is off the table.
“Any of these changes would hurt our chances of getting a petition,” Flynn said.
Flynn said possession of an illegal weapon is a C felony and criminal possession of a rapid-fire modified device, an A misdemeanor, can add up to a one-year prison sentence.
According to Gramaglia, the sears in these cars either come from abroad or are 3D printed as they are illegal even at the federal level. It is illegal to manufacture auto he shea in the county.
“Just having that piece of metal, you don’t have to be attached to a gun, you don’t have to have a gun. Just having that piece of metal is an indictment for federal prosecutors.” said Gramaglia.
7 News reached out to the U.S. Department of Justice, but a spokeswoman said there was no one available to talk to about the matter.
