Zoerner-Led Investigation Dismantles Illegal “Ghost Gun” Manufacturing Operation Targeting Teens

Sheriff David Zoerner has made it a priority to aggressively investigate illegal firearm activity and prevent dangerous weapons from reaching the hands of criminals and juveniles. Under his leadership, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department continues to work proactively with local and regional partners to identify and shut down illegal firearm trafficking operations.

In May 2024, Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department Detectives, Deputies, and multiple area tactical response teams executed five coordinated search warrants across Kenosha and Racine Counties as part of a long-term investigation into stolen firearms and illegal weapon distribution.

The investigation began on April 2, 2024, after deputies responded to a burglary in Paddock Lake in which multiple firearms were stolen. The case expanded significantly on May 1, when a concerned parent contacted law enforcement reporting a juvenile in possession of multiple firearms. At the same time, multiple “shots fired” calls were reported in the Silver Lake area. A traffic stop was conducted, leading to the recovery of stolen firearms connected to the April burglary.

Further investigation led detectives to additional residences in Paddock Lake and Salem Lakes, where more stolen firearms were recovered and evidence of an illegal firearm trafficking network was developed.

On May 29, 2024, detectives executed additional search warrants that uncovered a large-scale illegal firearm manufacturing and distribution operation involving high school-aged individuals. Investigators recovered multiple firearms, unserialized firearm frames commonly referred to as “ghost guns,” firearm parts, conversion tools, magazines, and ammunition.

Seven individuals were arrested in connection with the operation, including both adults and juveniles. Charges include receiving stolen property (firearms), illegal transfer of dangerous weapons to minors, possession of dangerous weapons by persons under 18, and carrying concealed weapons.

The investigation revealed that illegally manufactured and stolen firearms were being distributed among juveniles in Kenosha County, elevating significant public safety concerns. Authorities confirmed that the recovered firearms were linked to the initial Paddock Lake burglary.

Sheriff Zoerner credited the success of the investigation to strong cooperation between agencies, including the Racine County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Kenosha Police Department, as well as tips from concerned community members.

“The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department will continue to be proactive in identifying and stopping illegal firearm trafficking in our community. Because of the outstanding work of our detectives and deputies—and the cooperation of our law enforcement partners—dangerous weapons were removed from circulation before further harm could occur. Our priority remains protecting our schools, our neighborhoods, and our families.”

Sheriff Zoerner has emphasized a continued focus on proactive enforcement against illegal firearm trafficking, stolen weapons, and criminal networks that exploit juveniles. Through coordinated investigations and rapid response, the Sheriff's Department remains committed to keeping dangerous weapons off the streets and ensuring accountability for those who put the community at risk.