Toriano A. Leaks, Jr., Machine Gun Possession, Ohio 2024

A Cleveland man has been indicted in federal court for having an unlicensed machine gun, according to a recent indictment. Toriano A. Leaks, Jr., 20, faces two counts of illegal possession of a machine gun.

Leaks was found to possess a Glock .40-caliber that had been modified into a machine gun on April 10. He also possessed a select fire auto-sear, which is used exclusively for converting a weapon into a machine gun, according to the indictment.

Along with the machine gun and select fire auto-sear, Leaks was found to possess 21 rounds of ammunition and three magazines, with capacities of 15, 20, and 30 rounds of ammunition, according to court documents.

The investigation is ongoing, but authorities have already spoken out about the dangers of unlicensed machine guns. "Adding this specific part to a handgun to make it fully automatic makes that firearm illegal and puts the public at risk," said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman.

Leaked was arrested after a traffic stop in the City of Bedford, where Officer Stanton observed a vehicle with minor traffic violations. The officer's keen observations and excellent police work led to the discovery of a modified machine gun, high-capacity magazines, and narcotics in the vehicle.

Bedford Police Chief Martin Stemple praised Officer Stanton's work, saying "In reference to the Toriano Leaks arrest and indictment: Officer Stanton while patrolling the City of Bedford, observed a vehicle with some seemingly minor traffic violations, and conducted a traffic stop. Through some keen observations and excellent police work, Officer Stanton developed a routine traffic stop into an arrest of a dangerous individual."

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. If convicted, Leaks' sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including his prior criminal record, if any, his role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndoh/pr/cleveland-man-indicted-having-unlicensed-machine-gun