⏱ 2 min read
A Somerville, Massachusetts man, Robert Butland, 39, has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, after authorities found over 100 ghost guns, including machine guns and silencers, at his residence. The search, which took place in August 2025, also uncovered a 3D printer, ammunition, and various firearm parts and accessories. Butland, who has a history of violent crime, including assault and battery on a police officer, is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior convictions.
The investigation led to the discovery of a locked closet inside Butland’s bedroom, which contained numerous ghost guns, as well as solvent traps commonly used as illegal firearm suppressors. Additional ghost guns were found in nightstands, backpacks, and coffee table drawers throughout the bedroom. The search also recovered multiple 3D printers, firearm parts, and accessories, as well as ammunition in multiple calibers.
Butland’s guilty plea comes after he was arrested and charged in August 2025, and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2025. He remains in federal custody and faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for November 10, 2026.
The case highlights the growing concern of ghost guns, which are unregulated and untraceable firearms that can be easily assembled and manufactured using 3D printers and other technology. The proliferation of these weapons has raised concerns among law enforcement and community leaders, who warn of the potential for increased violence and crime.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Weapons
- Defendant: Massachusetts
- Location: MA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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