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Published on January 14, 2025
Federal Authorities Charge Six in Dallas Crackdown on Illicit Machinegun Conversion Device SalesSource: Google Street View

In a concerted crackdown on illegal firearms modifications, six individuals have been charged by federal authorities as part of a takedown orchestrated by the ATF Dallas alongside the Irving Police Department. According to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Texas, the alleged offenders were apprehended for their involvement in the sale and distribution of machinegun conversion devices, commonly referred to as "switches."

Three of the accused, Marnelius Burks, Marco Cabrales, and Royce Weaver, are facing charges that include possession and transfer of a machinegun, aiding and abetting that possession and transfer, and conspiracy to engage in these activities. Damien Sereseroz and Gracie Valadez are similarly indicted with aiding and abetting the possession and transfer of a machine gun. At the same time, Anthony Joel Cantu has been charged with possession of a machine gun.

The arrests occurred last Thursday after the individuals made sales pitches over social media platforms. "Six months ago, we pledged to deploy the full force of the federal government against those who traffic in machinegun conversion devices. With the help of our law enforcement partners, we’ve done just that," affirms U.S. Attorney Simonton, as per the U.S. Department of Justice. Echoing her sentiments, ATF Dallas Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II praised the teamwork evident in the operation, stating, "Unfortunately for the bad guys, the good guys work together."

According to court documents, some defendants allegedly imported the switches from China and advertised them on social media, where they transacted with undercover officers. While these federal indictments and criminal complaints are not evidence of guilt, the subjects involved are presumed innocent until proven guilty. They could face sentences of up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted.