Welcome to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Washington Field Division. Our division is responsible for ATF criminal enforcement and industry regulatory activities in the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Our dedicated work force is comprised of special agents, industry operations investigators, canine handlers, certified fire and explosive investigators, intelligence research specialists, financial auditors, legal counsel, technicians and support staff.
ATF’s Washington Field Division special agents and support personnel are committed to reducing violent gun crime in our neighborhoods through intelligence, technology, and collaboration. ATF focuses their investigative efforts on armed violent offenders, career criminals, gun traffickers and gangs. We pride ourselves by working alongside our local, state and federal partners throughout the District of Columbia and Virginia to quickly remove violent offenders from our communities and to provide a safe and secure environment for our good citizens to live and thrive in.
Explosives and arson enforcement is an integral part of ATF’s overall violent crime reduction strategy. ATF’s Washington Field Division special agents investigate arson and explosives-related crimes in partnership with local and state fire investigators and police bomb squads. In the District of Columbia, an Arson Task Force comprised of ATF, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department respond and investigate fires involving serious injuries or fatalities.
ATF also has the duty of regulating the firearms and explosives industries to address potential public safety issues. Our industry operations investigators conduct inspections of federal firearms and explosives licensees to ensure that all firearms and explosives are stored, handled and conveyed in accordance with law.
The men and women of ATF are proud to serve you, and we encourage all residents to get involved and assist us in our goal of reducing violent crime and protecting our communities. If you have information regarding any criminal activity, please contact the Washington Field Division at (202) 648-8010.
Anthony Spotswood
Special Agent in Charge