Frederick Man Admits to Firearms Trafficking and Illegal Possession of Machinegun Devices

A Frederick resident faces federal sentencing after admitting to trafficking firearms and illegally possessing machinegun conversion devices, actions that could increase scrutiny of illegal gun activity in Maryland communities. According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, 26-year-old Jonathan Drew Bartgis pleaded guilty on Tuesday to firearms trafficking and unlawful possession of machinegun parts known as “Glock switches.”

The investigation began when federal agents identified an online channel on Telegram advertising illegal weapons. A suspicious package addressed to Bartgis was intercepted and found to contain a semi-automatic Glock 23 handgun with an extended magazine and 30 rounds of ammunition. A subsequent search of his Frederick residence uncovered an additional Glock 29 firearm, three Glock switches, over 400 rounds of ammunition, numerous firearm accessories, and parts associated with so-called “ghost guns,” which lack serial numbers and are difficult to trace.

Bartgis, a convicted felon prohibited from owning firearms, was also found with over $21,000 in cash and a cellphone containing messages coordinating illegal firearm transactions. His plea deal marks another case pursued under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a federal initiative aimed at curbing violent crime through coordinated law enforcement efforts and community partnerships. Residents of Frederick should be aware that cases like this may result in increased enforcement actions and stricter local firearm regulations.

Bartgis awaits sentencing, and federal authorities continue efforts to dismantle illegal gun trafficking networks operating through encrypted social media platforms. No sentencing date has been announced.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland

---