ATF launches anti-straw purchase campaign in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives together with the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has launched a major public awareness campaign to eliminate illegal gun purchases in San Antonio.

The "Don't Lie for the Other Guy" campaign focuses on straw purchasers - individuals who purchase a firearm on behalf of another person who is not able to legally purchase one for themselves. Straw purchases are felonies that can result in up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the buyer.

The San Antonio campaign launched with a press conference led by ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel accompanied by NSSF President and CEO Joe Bartozzi, U.S. Justin Simmons, and representatives from San Antonio Police Department and Bexar County Sheriff's Office.

To purchase a firearm, an individual must complete ATF Form 4473 and a background check via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) . Those who know they cannot pass a background check or do not want their names associated with a firearm purchase oftentimes recruit a friend or acquaintance to make the purchase for them. These individuals are straw purchasers and are committing a felony. Those engaged in gun trafficking often recruit multiple straw purchasers to assist them in acquiring firearms that then can end up in the hands of criminals, gangs and drug cartels, fueling violent crime.

"Straw purchasing is a serious federal crime that puts firearms into the hands of prohibited individuals and fuels violent crime in our communities," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel. "Through this partnership with the National Shooting Sports Foundation and our local law enforcement partners, we are reminding the public that if you buy a firearm for someone who cannot legally purchase one themselves, you can face significant federal prison time and substantial fines. We encourage everyone to recognize the warning signs and help us prevent illegal firearm trafficking before it leads to tragedy."

The campaign is promoted through multiple media channels including billboards, digital-out-of-home (DOOH) screens, desktop, mobile and tablet devices, and programmatic audio in geotargeted areas throughout San Antonio.

The campaign will run through September as a reminder to residents of San Antonio of the consequences associated with straw purchasing and its impact on their community.