The L.A. Daily News posted the above headline on page A7 of the 07/25/2008 edition, along with a photograph depicting a Special Agent from ATF, a (deputy) U.S. Attorney and Los Angeles City Attorney Rock Delgadillo posing with two rifles. Unfortunately, the three were mistaken about their "catch." The proclaimed "AK-47s" shown to the press were both 1940's era SKS rifles, not the assault weapons "banned" by state law. (SKS rifles are still legal to purchase and possess.)
Although the primary suspect was a convicted felon who is alleged to have been selling weapons (unlawfully) and narcotics, with the above information released to the press I wonder how good of a case they have against the bulk of those arrested. Statement from the U.S. Attorney: "During the investigation, an undercover operative bought assault rifles like AK-47s and M-16s -- weapons of war that have no place in the hands of criminal gangsters," U.S. Attorney Thomas O'Brien said in a statement.
Of the "38 arrested gang members" charged with weapons and drug violations, I'm curious how many will be released because the "contraband" guns seized weren't possessed in violation of state law, how many will get those same weapons returned to them and how many will sue for false arrest. Additionally, how can Delgadillo and others demand new laws restricting firearms, when they are apparently unable to properly enforce current ones?
Link with more info: http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_9....dailynews.com
Although the primary suspect was a convicted felon who is alleged to have been selling weapons (unlawfully) and narcotics, with the above information released to the press I wonder how good of a case they have against the bulk of those arrested. Statement from the U.S. Attorney: "During the investigation, an undercover operative bought assault rifles like AK-47s and M-16s -- weapons of war that have no place in the hands of criminal gangsters," U.S. Attorney Thomas O'Brien said in a statement.
Of the "38 arrested gang members" charged with weapons and drug violations, I'm curious how many will be released because the "contraband" guns seized weren't possessed in violation of state law, how many will get those same weapons returned to them and how many will sue for false arrest. Additionally, how can Delgadillo and others demand new laws restricting firearms, when they are apparently unable to properly enforce current ones?
Link with more info: http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_9....dailynews.com
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