Kansas City Men Indicted for Illegal Possession of Machine Gun Conversion Devices
In Kansas City, Missouri, two men are facing serious federal charges after authorities cracked down on illegal firearms. Demetrius Harris, known to friends as Meech, 24, and his younger brother Darius R. Harris, affectionately called D or D2, 22, have been indicted for possessing machine gun conversion devices, commonly referred to as switches or auto sears.
A Shocking Discovery
The indictment was announced on Wednesday, November 6, after a grand jury in Kansas City returned two separate cases against the brothers under seal. The information remained confidential until both men made their appearances in court. Demetrius faced the judge on the same day the indictments were revealed, while Darius appeared a week later on November 14.
Details of the Charges
Demetrius Harris has been charged with one count related to the illegal possession and transfer of several dangerous items. This includes an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 multi-caliber rifle equipped with an AR-type machine gun conversion device, in addition to two other conversion devices on January 24, 2024. Meanwhile, Darius is not off the hook either. He is facing two counts of illegally possessing and transferring a Glock-type machine gun conversion device on October 30, 2023, and again on November 9, 2023. Quickly, the city became aware that these young men were operating beyond the law.
Understanding the Devices
Now, you might be wondering, what exactly are these conversion devices? In simple terms, machine gun conversion devices allow individuals to turn semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machine guns. This means they can fire multiple rounds rapidly with just one pull of the trigger — definitely not something that belongs on the streets! Federal law classifies these devices as machine guns, which makes it illegal to possess, sell, or even use them.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
The Harris brothers are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh, and the investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It’s important to note that the charges against them are merely allegations and do not constitute proof of guilt. The evidence supporting the accusations will be presented in court, and it’s up to a federal trial jury to determine their fate.
Community Safety in Focus
This operation falls under a program known as Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to unite law enforcement agencies with local communities to tackle the ever-pressing issues of violent crime and gun violence. Launched as part of a broader initiative on May 26, 2021, PSN works on principles such as fostering trust and legitimacy within communities, supporting organizations dedicated to violence prevention, and focusing enforcement efforts strategically.
Looking Forward
As this case unfolds, local residents can only hope that further actions like this will lead to safer neighborhoods. With the mystery behind these indictments now revealed, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against illegal firearms and the commitment from law enforcement to protect communities.
Stay tuned for updates, as the future of Demetrius and Darius Harris hangs in the balance, with implications not only for their lives but also for the community of Kansas City as a whole.
