Device that turns handguns into machine guns on the rise in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee police are warning the public about an alarming uptick, a device known as a switch gun that turns any handgun into a machine gun is on the rise on Milwaukee streets. 

These devices are extremely dangerous and the difference between a regular firearm or legal semi-automatic firearm and an illegally converted firearm essentially means that more bullets are flying through our streets," said Captain James Hutchinson of the Special Investigations Division Milwaukee Police Department.

Cpt. Hutchinson said a switch is generally a small piece of metal that can be installed on a legal firearm.

"It’s the same gun only now when you pull the trigger, instead of one bullet being fired, it fires every bullet," said Cpt. Hutchinson.

In the last four years, Cpt. Hutchinson said they've seen a lot more firearms on the streets with these illegal devices. This year alone MPD recovered 64 automatic firearms.

"People are obtaining through various means, especially over the internet to my understanding because we have, I'm aware of interdiction of these parts that are being manufactured elsewhere," said Cpt. Hutchinson.

These switch devices are illegal in the state and federally, anyone in possession of these converters will face serious jail time. MPD is asking anyone who knows or seen anyone use a switch, to contact police at (414) 935-7360, or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-Tips or P3 Tips App.