Criminal enforcement offices are staffed by special agents and industry operations area offices are staffed by industry operations investigators (IOI), both are supported by administrative personnel. Division resources include ATF explosives detection canines and their special agent handlers; special agent certified fire investigators (CFI), experts in fire investigation and cause and origin; special agent certified explosives specialists; explosives enforcement officers; division counsel; and forensic auditors.
Special agents initiate firearms investigations to combat firearms-related violence, firearms trafficking, armed drug trafficking, and gang violence. Special agents investigate explosives and arson incidents, thefts of explosives, and enforce laws designed to prevent illegal diversion schemes involving alcohol and tobacco products. Strong partnerships with state and local law enforcement agencies include state and local officers who are assigned to some ATF field offices’ task force initiatives, which are designed to combat violent crime.
IOIs review the operations and premises of federal firearms and explosives licensees who are regulated by ATF such as dealers, importers, exporters, and manufacturers. This includes enforcement of the Safe Explosives Act of 2002, which mandates a field inspection on all original and renewable applications pertaining to explosives.
We encourage all members of the community to help us in reducing violent crime in their communities. Call ATF at (614) 827-8400 or email us at ColumbusDiv@atf.gov and let us know what we can do for you.
Daryl S. McCormick