In an effort to enhance public safety, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin recently emphasized the implications of a new state law addressing the possession of Glock switches and machine gun conversion devices. This legislation, enacted on March 19, 2025, categorizes possession of these devices as a Class C felony, thereby imposing stricter legal penalties.

Law and Rewards Program

The City of Birmingham’s Crime Stoppers program is set to offer $1,000 rewards for information leading to the arrest of individuals in possession of these illegal devices. Woodfin took to social media to relay this crucial message, stating:

“Dear switch boys… Simple possession satisfies the law and you can receive up to 10 years in prison.”

He further encouraged community involvement to help address the issue, urging residents to report suspicious activities anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.

Legislative Background

The new law received swift approval from the Alabama Senate, including amendments that allowed for its immediate enactment upon signing by Governor Kay Ivey. This swift legislative process highlights a growing concern over the rise in violent crimes associated with the misuse of Glock switches, which can convert semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons.

Community Safety Initiative

The Birmingham administration, along with the police department, has prioritized efforts to reduce gun violence in the city. Interim Police Chief Michael Pickett previously shared insights on the strategies being implemented, stating:

“A part of the gun violence strategy is having a crackdown on the gun trafficking in and of itself, for guns, and also the machine gun conversion devices.”

This multi-faceted approach includes addressing straw purchases—where individuals buy firearms intending to transfer them to prohibited persons.

The Severity of Gun Crime in Birmingham

Recent reports indicate that machine gun conversion devices have contributed significantly to Birmingham’s alarming homicide rates, which hit a record 152 in the previous year. Mayor Woodfin underscored the severity of this issue, asserting:

“The most heinous crimes that were committed were with the use of Glock switches… that cause mass casualties.”

This statement reinforces the administration’s commitment to curbing the associated violence through legislative action and community cooperation.