ATF Operation Uncovers Tucson Man Selling Illegal Glock Conversion Kits

A Tucson man faces multiple federal charges for allegedly selling devices intended to convert semi-automatic Glock pistols into fully-automatic weapons. Damien Jax Schaffer, 35, was arrested on June 24 by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on allegations of dealing in firearms without a license and possessing an unregistered firearm.

According to ATF Special Agent Alexander Tisch, Schaffer sold 15 “machinegun conversion devices” to an undercover agent over the span of approximately one month. These devices were shipped via FedEx. On May 8, Schaffer demonstrated parts to the agent that could transform semi-automatic pistols—capable of firing one round per trigger press—into continuous firing weapons. Agents asserted that these parts meet the federal definition of a machine gun.

Subsequently, on May 17, Schaffer sold three of these devices and shipped them. Just four days later, he sold another 10 units, followed by an additional two on June 17. The ATF notes that conversion kits must be registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, yet according to authorities, Schaffer’s devices were unregistered, and he lacked the necessary firearms sales license.

Federal officials have increasingly targeted individuals involved in the manufacture and sale of components that can alter semi-automatic firearms. This includes tackling “ghost guns” and 3D-printed weapon parts. For instance, earlier this year, a Tucson man was arrested for selling a fully-automatic 9mm pistol and a 3D-printed AR-15 conversion part. The Biden administration has instituted stricter regulations, categorizing gun parts kits as firearms under the Gun Control Act. This rule faced legal challenges but was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2023.

Since January, federal prosecutors have initiated numerous similar cases. Under the Biden administration’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, a systematic approach to reducing violent crime has been emphasized. The initiative aims to identify critical violent crime issues in communities and develop comprehensive intervention strategies, focusing enforcement on the most serious offenders.

Under the administration of former President Trump, this effort was rebranded as Operation Take Back America, targeting illegal immigration and organized crime. The investigation into Schaffer’s case continues, with prosecution being managed by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona in Tucson.