A Vulcan man is facing charges after an investigation into firearms manufacturing. The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) seized various 3d printers and firearms in different stages of completion after searching our Vulcan homes.
The investigation, which began in January 2022, involved the assistance of Vulcan RCMP, Lethbridge Police, and the RCMP’s National Weapons Enforcement Support Team (NWEST).
“3D printed firearms recklessly circumvent the lawful process of firearms possession and fly in the face of law-abiding firearms owners. As technology evolves, ALERT and our policing partners will remain steadfast in responding to emerging trends to keep Alberta communities safe,” said Staff Sgt. Leon Borbandy, ALERT Lethbridge.
Reed Davis, 39, from Vulcan, is facing charges including: manufacturing of firearms, manufacturing an explosive, unsafe storage of a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of drugs. ALERT pressed the charges on Aug. 11 after a lengthy investigation.
Four manufactured firearms were seized in the searches, along with a 3D printer, a small improvised explosive device, two restricted handguns, a loaded shotgun, rifle, ammunition and 15 grams of methamphetamine,.
Following preliminary testing by NWEST, one of the manufactured firearms was found to function and capable of firing live ammunition, according to ALERT. Further forensic analysis and ballistics testing is underway. The improvised explosive device was removed by the Lethbridge Police Service Explosive Disposal Unit and later safely detonated.
Davis was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on October 18.
