In a dramatic development, Benjamin Hunt, a 26-year-old man from Fall River, Massachusetts, was arrested on charges of selling drugs and machineguns using the encrypted messaging app, Telegram. Hunt’s alleged activities included distributing controlled substances and firearms, utilizing modern technology and cryptocurrency to operate under the radar. His arrest highlights the ongoing battle between law enforcement agencies and tech-savvy criminals who exploit digital platforms for illegal trades.
The Charges Against Benjamin Hunt
Benjamin Hunt faces several serious charges, including three counts of distribution of controlled substances and one count of transferring machineguns. According to court documents, Hunt utilized Telegram, a cloud-based messaging platform known for its privacy and encryption features, to advertise and sell various types of drugs, firearms, and other contraband. Payments for these illegal transactions were reportedly made using Bitcoin, a cryptocurrency that offers a degree of anonymity.
Hunt’s alleged activities were not limited to drug distribution; he is also accused of selling firearms, including “ghost guns”—privately made firearms that lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. In addition, Hunt allegedly sold machinegun conversion devices, or “switches,” designed to turn semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons.
Undercover Operations Lead to Benjamin Hunt’s Arrest
The investigation into Benjamin Hunt’s activities included multiple undercover operations conducted by law enforcement. In February and May of 2024, undercover agents reportedly purchased 100 and 500 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, respectively, from Hunt through Telegram. These transactions were paid for using Bitcoin, and Hunt allegedly shipped the narcotics via the U.S. mail after receiving the payments.
The investigation took a more alarming turn in June 2024, when undercover law enforcement purchased a Glock-type privately made firearm without a serial number, two machinegun conversion devices, 110 counterfeit fentanyl pills, an extended magazine, and 3D-printed brass knuckles from Hunt. Earlier this week, Hunt allegedly mailed an additional 1,600 counterfeit fentanyl pills to undercover officers in exchange for Bitcoin.
Significant Seizures Highlight the Scale of Operations
The arrest of Benjamin Hunt led to the execution of multiple search warrants, resulting in the seizure of a significant quantity of drugs, firearms, and other contraband. Law enforcement agents reportedly found large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, morphine, codeine, and psychedelic mushrooms. Additionally, they seized approximately 10 firearms, several machinegun conversion devices, silencers, high-capacity magazines, ammunition, and multiple 3D printers capable of producing “ghost guns.”
Authorities also intercepted several packages linked to Hunt, including one containing a smoke grenade and another containing 13 machinegun conversion devices. The sheer volume of drugs and firearms seized during the investigation highlights the significant threat posed by Hunt’s alleged activities.
Law Enforcement’s Response and Public Safety Concerns
Benjamin Hunt’s arrest has prompted strong responses from multiple law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation. Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy emphasized the commitment of federal authorities to dismantling dangerous networks that use technology to distribute deadly drugs and firearms. He highlighted how Hunt exploited encrypted messaging platforms and cryptocurrency to sell lethal narcotics and untraceable weapons, posing a serious risk to communities nationwide.
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Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, noted that drug trafficking, along with the associated violence, remains a severe threat to public safety. James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, stressed the agency’s commitment to preventing the illegal sale and use of machinegun conversion devices.
The Broader Impact of Benjamin Hunt’s Case
The case against Benjamin Hunt is part of a larger initiative under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The OCDETF aims to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most dangerous criminal organizations in the United States using a multi-agency, intelligence-driven approach.
Benjamin Hunt’s arrest serves as a stark warning to others who believe they can exploit digital platforms and cryptocurrencies to conduct illegal activities anonymously. As authorities continue to enhance their capabilities to track and apprehend such individuals, this case demonstrates that law enforcement remains vigilant in its efforts to protect communities from the dangers of drug trafficking and illegal firearms distribution.
Benjamin Hunt’s arrest marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against tech-savvy criminals who leverage encrypted communication and digital currencies to conduct illegal trades. The substantial seizures of drugs and firearms linked to Hunt’s operations illustrate the extent of the threat posed by such activities. As this case unfolds, it is clear that law enforcement agencies will continue to pursue individuals who threaten public safety through illegal drug and firearms trafficking.
