LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Louisville Field Division recently conducted seminars attended by more than 75 federal firearms license (FFL) dealers and Special Occupational Taxpayers that deal in firearms regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA) from Jefferson, Daviess, Fayette and several Northern Kentucky counties.
“This is an opportunity to strengthen the relationships between ATF and the firearms Industry in Kentucky," stated Stuart Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the ATF Louisville Division. “By working together to ensure compliance during gun sales, we can enhance public safety, disrupt illegal firearms trafficking and reduce violent crime."
During the day-long session, held on Sept. 13th, FFLs received information on best practices in securing their businesses to prevent, detect and report firearms thefts and losses, and assist in safeguarding the public from violent crime. Last year, nationwide, 8,129 firearms were reported stolen from FFLs during robberies and burglaries. This figure represents a 200% increase in firearms reported stolen during robberies since 2013 and a 133.71% increase in firearms reported stolen during burglaries since 2013. Stolen guns frequently are used in future gun crimes.
Further, FFLs in attendance were instructed on the most common errors and omissions when completing information on the ATF Form 4473 (firearms over-the-counter transaction record) and the potential impact to public safety.
In Kentucky and six counties in Southern Indiana, there are approximately 2,600 Federal firearms licensees. That number includes primarily retailers and pawnbrokers in firearms. There are also approximately 350 Federal explosives licensees and permittees in Kentucky.
ATF is dedicated to reducing firearms trafficking and firearms-related violent crime. For more information on ATF or to view information about FFLs, please see our website at www.atf.gov.
