News - Santa Clara Teen Charged for Stash of 3D-Printed Ghost Guns

In a significant crackdown on illegal firearm manufacturing, an 18-year-old teenager from San Jose is facing serious repercussions for allegedly producing ghost guns using 3D printing technology. The Santa Clara District Attorney’s Office revealed that Jacob Reyes had established a small-scale arms enterprise in his bedroom, equipped with two 3D weapon printers. Authorities seized 27 firearms, mostly fabricated through 3D printing, and ammunition. Some firearms were adapted to function as fully automatic machine guns. The operation, which appears to be part of a burgeoning underground market, came to light following a meticulous investigation. According to District Attorney Jeff Rosen, this arrest highlights the pressing issues around untraceable weapons proliferating in communities. “There is a black market of weapons thriving right under our noses,” Rosen stated, underscoring the importance of the seizure in combating illegal firearms. Reyes was promptly arraigned facing multiple felony charges, including unlicensed firearm manufacturing and possession of a machine gun, positioning him at risk of a potentially long prison sentence. This case marks a noteworthy instance of technology being harnessed for illicit purposes, signaling significant challenges for law enforcement amid technological advancements. The discovery has raised alarm bells about the ease of accessing tools capable of manufacturing such weapons, prompting conversations about regulatory measures to curb the proliferation of ghost guns. The case continues to unfold, shedding light on the mechanisms of illegal arms trafficking and the significant dangers posed by untraceable weapons within communities.