Mohave Today

Arizona Rep. Travis Grantham, along with Reps. Selina Bliss and Quang Nguyen, has called for an investigation into the transfer of firearms to Ukraine. In a letter addressed to Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, the lawmakers expressed their concerns about the alleged illegal trafficking of guns by the City of Phoenix.

Grantham stated, "I have asked for a full criminal and civil review from Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell regarding the City of Phoenix's illegal trafficking of guns." He also emphasized the need to hold accountable the Mayor and Council Members who approved this violation of state law.

The controversy surrounding the transfer of firearms to Ukraine began when it was reported in July that the city of Phoenix had donated hundreds of unclaimed guns to the National Police in Kyiv, Ukraine. The proposal, which involved donating approximately 600 unclaimed firearms valued at around $200,000, was unanimously approved by Phoenix officials.

However, the transfer faced criticism and opposition from some lawmakers. The Arizona Attorney General, Kris Mayes, conducted an investigation and concluded that the Phoenix City Council had violated state law. As a result, Arizona state Representatives Selina Bliss and Quang Nguyen wrote a letter to Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, expressing their concerns about the transfer and suggesting that it might be considered unlawful.

In their letter to Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, the lawmakers urged her to initiate both criminal and civil investigations against Gallego and other council members. They aim to hold them accountable for the violation of state law regarding the transfer of firearms to Ukraine.

The lawmakers highlighted the fact that unclaimed firearms may only be sold, not donated, and the buyer must be a business authorized to receive and dispose of the firearm under federal and state law. According to a previous letter from the Arizona House, the City of Phoenix violated this law by donating the firearms instead of selling them.

The lawmakers also pointed out that neither the Attorney General's report nor the City's repeal of its ordinance absolves the Mayor or Council Members of criminal or civil liability for their misconduct. They emphasized that there are still significant legal and factual questions that remain unanswered, and the City has refused to disclose the date on which they illegally sent the firearms abroad.

The call for an investigation by Reps. Travis Grantham, Selina Bliss, and Quang Nguyen underscores the need for accountability and adherence to state laws in the transfer of firearms. The outcome of the investigation will determine the legal consequences for the Mayor and Council Members involved in the alleged illegal trafficking of guns.