Large Cache of Illegal Guns Seized

 
Los Angeles: On May 31, 2002, during the course of an investigation, detectives assigned to the Gun Unit, Detective Headquarters Division, served a search warrant at a pawnshop located in the Southwest Area of Los Angeles. Detectives discovered 139 firearms at the location: 85 handguns, 35 shotguns and 19 rifles. This investigation began with the discovery of a stolen weapon at the pawnshop. Additionally, the pawnshop dealer did not possess a valid Federal Firearms License and was prohibited from conducting any sales or transactions in firearms. Gun Unit detectives took all 139 firearms into custody. These guns were recovered in South Central Los Angeles, which has a high gang homicide rate. Many of the 139 guns were "Saturday Night Specials" which are commonly used in crimes of violence. Additionally, a majority of the handguns were cheap, unsafe weapons and are illegal for sale in the State of California. This investigation is on-going.
All of the Guns Confiscated will be on display and available to the Media at Parker Center Room G-78 Between the hours of 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. For further information contact the Los Angeles Police Department Gun Detail Unit at 213-473-7351.
This media advisory was prepared by Public Information Officer Jose l. Rodriguez, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.