Federal investigators say they have broken up an alleged gun-trafficking network accused of moving dozens of firearms from Georgia to street gangs in Chicago, including weapons later tied to the killing of a juvenile and other violent offenses.
Five defendants were named in a 23-count federal indictment unsealed this month in the Middle District of Georgia. The case stems from a Homeland Security Task Force investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, known as the ATF.
Anthony Edmond and Rafael Enriquez are facing the most severe allegations, including charges connected to a firearms-trafficking conspiracy, machine guns and drug trafficking, prosecutors said. If convicted, both could face up to life in prison. Three other defendants are also charged with federal firearms conspiracy offenses.
Court filings describe Edmond as an alleged member of the Chicago-based Black Disciples gang and an associate of the Conservative Vice Lords, another Chicago street gang.
Anthony Edmond, also known as “Chapo,” is accused of helping coordinate a firearms-trafficking operation that allegedly sent guns from Georgia to Chicago street gangs. (Justice Department)
Prosecutors allege Edmond was instructed by co-conspirators to carry out straw purchases at Georgia gun stores, with the firearms later transported to Illinois and distributed to gang members in the Chicago area.
Between 2020 and 2021, Edmond allegedly bought dozens of firearms from Georgia retailers, including at least 22 guns during a 10-month span, according to prosecutors.
The indictment says some of the weapons were later modified to function as fully automatic firearms and were connected to multiple violent crimes.
Federal prosecutors allege an interstate firearms trafficking ring funneled weapons from Georgia to Chicago street gangs, with some later linked to violent crimes. (Justice Department)
Prosecutors also allege Edmond purchased ammunition, extended magazines and drum magazines, and test-fired firearms before transferring them.
Edmond is also accused of making multiple trips from Georgia to Illinois to deliver the firearms to gang members in Chicago.
Authorities said police recovered 20 firearms allegedly purchased by Edmond in three states between 2021 and 2026.
Authorities announced charges against five people accused of supplying firearms to Chicago street gangs through an alleged trafficking conspiracy. (Justice Department)
According to prosecutors, the Chicago Police Department recovered a Glock pistol in 2021 from the bedroom of a known juvenile gang member. Forensic testing later linked the firearm to three separate violent crimes.
Prosecutors allege the pistol was used in a 2021 Chicago murder and later in the shooting of a rival gang member. Investigators said Edmond purchased the firearm in Georgia just 36 days before it was allegedly used in the homicide.
