News Summary
Kalen Thompson, a 25-year-old from Memphis, has been sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a Glock switch. This device allows semi-automatic firearms to fire in fully automatic mode. Thompson was caught with a modified 9mm Glock pistol and had previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a machine gun. The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, aimed at reducing gun violence and enhancing public safety through collaboration between law enforcement agencies.
Memphis โ A 25-year-old man, Kalen Thompson, has been sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a Glock switch, a device that converts semi-automatic firearms to fully automatic. The sentencing was announced by the Department of Justice on May 23, 2025, following Thompson’s guilty plea earlier this year.
Thompson was apprehended by Memphis police on September 15, 2023, while they were searching for a robbery suspect. Officers discovered him hiding under a carport, holding a 9mm Glock pistol equipped with the conversion device. It was later determined that the firearm had been reported stolen in January 2023, and Thompson had illegally modified it to function as a machine gun.
Chief United States District Judge Sheryl Lipman presided over the trial, during which Thompson pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawful possession of a machine gun in February 2025. The judge’s sentence includes a requirement that Thompson undergo three years of supervised release following his prison term.
This case is part of an ongoing initiative known as Project Safe Neighborhoods, which targets violent crime and gun violence in communities. The program aims to enhance public safety through collaboration between federal prosecutors and local police departments. In this case, the investigation involved detectives from the Memphis Police Department and federal officers, culminating in coordinated efforts to address gun-related offenses.
Interim United States Attorney Joseph C. Murphy Jr. announced the outcome of the case, highlighting the significance of enforcing laws against illegal firearms to enhance community safety. The case represents a concerted effort by law enforcement to target and reduce the risks posed by illegal weapons and street violence.
The possession of illegal firearms, such as those modified with Glock switches, poses serious safety hazards to communities. These devices allow firearms to fire in a fully automatic mode, which significantly increases the potential for misuse and violent encounters. The prevalence of such devices highlights the challenges many cities face in combating firearm-related crimes.
Thompson’s case is emblematic of larger issues surrounding gun violence and illegal weapon possession in urban areas. As these types of incidents continue to surface, law enforcement agencies are ramping up their efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms by strict enforcement of existing laws.
The increased focus on Project Safe Neighborhoods reflects a national trend toward viewing violent crime and gun violence as pervasive threats that undermine public safety, necessitating multi-agency strategies and community engagement.
In summary, Kalen Thompson’s conviction and sentence serve as a reminder of the legal consequences associated with illegal firearm possession and modifications. Law enforcement continues to seek collaborative efforts to mitigate violence and promote safety within communities across the nation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Action News 5
- Wikipedia: Glock
- Local Memphis
- Google Search: Glock switch
- WREG News
- Google Scholar: gun violence policy
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: firearm legislation
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
