People with 3D printers are reminded of the serious criminal penalties that can be imposed on a person convicted in court for offences related to the manufacture of 3D-printed illicit firearms and firearm components.
On Thursday 14 December 2023, detectives from the Drug and Firearm Squad executed a search warrant at a residence in Coogee. It will be alleged several items linked to the 3D printing of firearm components were located, including a partially completed firearm, firearm parts, and a 3D printer. The firearm parts seized were of such a quality that it is believed the final product would have been a functional firearm. A 53-year-old man is currently progressing through the courts in relation to this seizure, and is next due to appear in Fremantle Magistrates Court on Friday 22 March 2024.
On Wednesday 7 February 2024, a stolen Mazda CX-7 was stopped by South West Rapid High-Harm Offender Response Team officers on Forrest Highway in Glen Iris and the two occupants of the vehicle – the 31-year-old male driver and 29-year-old female passenger – were taken into custody. The vehicle was seized and taken to the Bunbury Police Station to be searched. It will be alleged a loaded 3D-printed handgun was located hidden in the vehicle. Both occupants of the vehicle have been charged by Bunbury Detectives in relation to the firearm and other offences. The 41-year-old man is next due to appear in Bunbury Magistrates Court on Thursday 29 February 2024, while the 29-year-old woman is next due to appear in the same court on Thursday 4 April 2024.
Acting Detective Inspector Blair SMITH from the Serious and Organised Crime Division said in addition to the serious criminal penalties that a court may impose on a convicted illicit firearm manufacturer, there are other consequences to consider.
"Serious criminal convictions may not only lead to a term of imprisonment, but can have a long-lasting impact on your life. It simply isn't worth the risk. Being convicted of offences associated with the manufacture and possession of illicit firearms, or firearm components, can impact on your employment and ability to travel overseas.
"There are amnesty provisions for anyone who proactively contacts police to explain their situation and arranges for the safe destruction of the firearm parts they have manufactured. Anyone in such a situation is encouraged to contact their local police station as soon as possible. Once you have police officers knocking on your door, it is too late to make the call."
A person convicted of participating in unauthorised firearm activity such as the manufacture, repair or dealing in firearms face a court-imposed penalty of up to 14 years imprisonment.
A person convicted of being in unauthorised possession of firearms technology, including firearm plans and schematics - which include those used to manufacture 3D-printed firearms - face a court-imposed penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment.
Anyone with information regarding the manufacture or sale of illicit firearms or firearm components, including those manufactured using 3D printers, is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
