Firearms Unit

The Firearms Unit of the Northampton County District Attorney’s Office is tasked with investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the illegal possession, transfer, and criminal use of firearms – often in connection with violent offenses and drug trafficking.

Under the leadership of Deputy District Attorney Joseph Stauffer, this specialized unit is focused on protecting our communities by addressing both individual violations and broader patterns of gun violence.

Prosecution Focus Areas

The unit aggressively pursues cases involving:

  • Unlawful possession of firearms

  • Illegal transfers or sales of firearms

  • Use of firearms in the commission of violent crimes such as homicides, shootings, and robberies

  • Juvenile firearm offenses, which have become a growing concern

At the direction of the District Attorney, the unit is now placing heightened emphasis on identifying and prosecuting juveniles illegally possessing firearms in our schools and neighborhoods.

Firearms Trafficking & Straw Purchases

In addition to traditional prosecutions under Pennsylvania law, the unit also works closely with County Detectives and Federal Law Enforcement Partners to investigate and prosecute:

  • Firearms trafficking – The use of fraudulent or falsified information to illegally obtain and distribute firearms

  • Straw purchases – When a legally eligible buyer unlawfully purchases a firearm on behalf of someone who is prohibited from owning one (e.g., convicted felons)

These activities are often linked to organized criminal networks and present a significant risk to public safety.

Collaboration & Long-Term Investigations

Reducing gun violence requires coordination across all levels of law enforcement. The Firearms Unit partners with:

  • Local Police Departments

  • County Detectives

  • Pennsylvania State Police

  • Federal agencies such as the ATF and FBI

Together, we conduct long-term, intelligence-driven investigations to dismantle the illegal acquisition and distribution of firearms in Northampton County.

Our Mission

The Firearms Unit is committed to:

  • Holding gun offenders accountable

  • Interrupting illegal firearms pipelines

  • Preventing gun violence through proactive enforcement and prosecution

  • Creating safer communities for all Northampton County residents