Why restricting trace data is important
The mayor misused gun trace data to launch so-called “sting” operations against firearms dealers without the knowledge of either ATF or his own police department. In the process, his private investigators interfered with as many as 18 ongoing criminal investigations, imperiling the lives of law enforcement personnel — like undercover NYPD cops who played a key role in busting up a Virginia gunrunning ring. This is precisely why law enforcement groups like the Fraternal Order of Police, the nation’s largest police organization, support legislation that would keep gun trace data out of the hands of the public yet make it available to law enforcement for investigatory purposes.
And, you know, the investigations were illegal.
