San José police say they shut down a sprawling illegal gun operation after arresting a 20-year-old man accused of cranking out and selling conversion devices that turn standard pistols into fully automatic weapons. Investigators say search warrants turned up guns, ammunition, and materials used to make those parts, which they believe were headed for buyers around the Bay Area and into the Central Valley.
In a press release posted by San José Police Media Relations, the department identified the suspect as Kenneth Tafoya of Lockeford. Officers arrested him today in Stockton and booked him into the Santa Clara County Main Jail. According to the release, detectives opened the case on November 15 after getting a tip from the Santa Clara County Adult Probation Office, with the California Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives brought in to assist.
SJPD Arrests Suspect for Manufacturing, Sales, and Distribution of Illegal Firearmshttps://t.co/WWPzBijBtC
— San José Police Media Relations (@SJPD_PIO) January 27, 2026
“The importation, manufacturing and sale of illegal firearms will not be tolerated,” Chief Paul Joseph said in the statement. Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen also weighed in, praising the multi-agency teamwork that, in his view, means fewer illegal guns and less violence on local streets…