In a disturbing trend, law enforcement officials in Longview are reporting a surge in the presence of illegally modified automatic machine guns on the streets. These dangerous firearms, often altered to fire automatically, are being seized by deputies at an alarming rate. The Longview Sheriff’s Department has expressed concern over the growing number of these modified guns, which can fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger. According to authorities, the majority of these guns are being modified by individuals with little to no knowledge of firearms, making them even more hazardous. The illegal modification of these guns is not only a threat to public safety but also a serious concern for law enforcement officers who are putting their lives on the line to protect the community. The rise of these modified guns has been linked to an increase in violent crimes, including shootings and homicides. Deputies are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend individuals responsible for modifying and distributing these firearms. The Longview Sheriff’s Department is urging residents to report any suspicious activity related to these modified guns. In addition to the threat they pose to public safety, these guns are also often used in criminal activities, such as robberies and gang-related violence. The illegal modification of firearms is a federal offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Despite the severity of the punishment, the trend continues to grow, with more and more individuals attempting to modify their guns. The Longview Sheriff’s Department is working closely with federal agencies to combat the issue and bring those responsible to justice. The community is also being encouraged to take an active role in preventing the spread of these modified guns. By reporting suspicious activity and cooperating with law enforcement, residents can help make their neighborhoods safer. The rise of illegally modified machine guns is a complex issue, with roots in both the illegal firearms trade and the lack of education on firearms safety. To address the issue, the Longview Sheriff’s Department is launching a series of community outreach programs aimed at educating residents on the dangers of these modified guns. The programs will also focus on providing resources for individuals who may be struggling with the temptation to modify their firearms. In addition to the community outreach programs, the Longview Sheriff’s Department is also increasing patrols in areas known to be hotspots for violent crime. The department is committed to making the community a safer place, and deputies are working around the clock to achieve this goal. The issue of illegally modified machine guns is not unique to Longview, with other cities across the country experiencing similar problems. However, the Longview Sheriff’s Department is taking a proactive approach to addressing the issue, and their efforts are being recognized as a model for other law enforcement agencies. As the situation continues to evolve, the Longview Sheriff’s Department will remain vigilant, working to protect the community and prevent the spread of these dangerous firearms.