Federal authorities have dismantled a suspected firearms trafficking ring. Prosecutors accuse the group of channeling dozens of guns from Georgia to Chicago gangs. Some of these weapons were linked to a juvenile murder and other violent crimes.
This month, a 23-count federal indictment was unsealed in the Middle District of Georgia. This followed an investigation by a Homeland Security Task Force led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Anthony Edmond and Rafael Enriquez face the most severe charges, including conspiracy related to firearms trafficking, machineguns, and drug trafficking. If convicted, they face a life sentence. Three others also face federal firearms conspiracy charges.
Allegations Against Edmond
Court documents suggest that Anthony Edmond is a member of the Black Disciples gang in Chicago and associated with the Conservative Vice Lords gang. Edmond, also called “Chapo,” allegedly helped run a firearms trafficking operation. This operation reportedly moved guns from Georgia to Chicago gangs.
Prosecutors state that Edmond received directions from co-conspirators to make straw purchases from Georgia gun stores. These guns were later transported and given to Chicago gang members.
Between 2020 and 2021, Edmond allegedly bought dozens of firearms, including at least 22 over a 10-month span. Some of these firearms were reportedly modified into fully automatic weapons and used in various violent crimes.
Additional Allegations and Operations
Authorities allege Edmond bought ammunition, extended magazines, and drum magazines. He reportedly test-fired firearms before passing them on. Edmond is accused of traveling from Georgia to Illinois multiple times to deliver these weapons.
By 2026, police claimed to have recovered 20 firearms allegedly purchased by Edmond across three states.
Use of Trafficked Firearms
The Chicago Police Department recovered a Glock pistol in 2021 from the bedroom of a juvenile gang member. Forensic tests linked this firearm to three violent crimes. The weapon was reportedly used in a 2021 Chicago murder and a rival gang member’s shooting. Investigators state Edmond bought the firearm in Georgia 36 days before its involvement in the homicide.