The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms (ATF) and Explosives Resources
Students who are enrolled in a criminal justice or criminology degree program may want to consider working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives (ATF). This is a fascinating agency that can have graduates working in a number of versatile positions. Depending on area of study, those with a bachelor’s in criminal justice or criminology can help the ATF in its goal of protecting the country’s citizens from the trafficking of illegal firearms, illegal tobacco and liquor, acts of terrorism and the prohibited use of explosives.
The job of the ATF: The ATF is dedicated to securing the U.S. by working side by side with communities, local and state law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations. With these partnerships established, the ATF can help prevent unlawful acts that occur inside and outside the country’s borders.
The ATF’s most wanted list: A number of criminals on the ATF’s most wanted list are responsible for serious crimes that have impacted communities or individual lives. Those people this list are considered extremely dangerous criminals and harmful to society.
Violent Crime Impact Teams: Established as a partnership with the ATF, this group is built upon the principles of the Violent Crime Reduction Initiative, which combats gun violations through all local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Since the inception of this initiative in 2001, more than one billion dollars has been allocated for additional training and staffing to decrease gun violence in the country.
Federal internship programs: The ATF offers internships within the organization that can help jumpstart a budding law enforcement career. Those who are pursuing a criminal justice or criminology degree can enter the federal Student Temporary Employment Program and work toward a future career gaining experience and first-hand knowledge.
Employment with the ATF: Employment with the ATF is difficult and may require individuals to hold credentials such as a bachelor’s in criminal justice or criminology. The agency is always on the look out for specialists, investigators, professionals and technical consultants.
Firearms in the U.S.
The ATF is always on the look out for the trafficking of illegal arms, either from within the country’s borders or coming in from a foreign location. A number of programs and developments help make this possible.
The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network: Starting in 1999, the ATF began this program to automate ballistic imaging technology in order to digitally capture markings on bullet cartridge casings. With this information, the agency can acquire a better idea of which bullets were fired from a certain gun.
Project Gunrunner: Project Gunrunner is a program that is geared toward preventing the trafficking of guns from the U.S. into Mexico.
ATF vigilance on the U.S. and Mexican border: In recent years, organized crime in Mexico has reached all-time highs. The ATF is making it a priority to stop violence in this part of the world.
Alcohol regulations in the U.S.
Among its many duties, the ATF also helps regulate alcohol in the U.S. and prevent distribution to the wrong parties.
The moonshine industry: Moonshining is a practice that occurred during the times of prohibition. Although illegal whiskey stills may seem harmless, they can produce liquor that is extremely powerful and may cause irreprable harm to those who drink it.
Underage alcohol consumption: Underage consumption of alcohol is a large focal point for the ATF, the chief concern being that young people will drink and then operate a motor vehicle.
Alcoholic beverage control boards: Each state is required under federal law to regulate the sale and control of alcohol. The ATF is able to step into circumstances it feels may require federal assistance.
Tobacco laws
The ATF’s role in U.S. tobacco: The ATF handles tobacco when investigating cigarette trafficking. This crime involves individuals who sell contraband cigarettes that may be stolen and not subject to tax by the federal government.
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau: This branch of the U.S. Department of the Treasury serves to impose taxes and tariffs on a number of regulated goods.
The Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking (PACT) Act: Approved by Congress in May of 2009, this act helps combat the sale of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco over the internet. It is also part of an initiative to help prevent kids from smoking.
Explosives
Explosives are used in many industries, such as construction, but must be regulated so these powerful tools do not fall into the wrong hands.
The U.S. Bomb Data Center: This part of the ATF was developed as an arson- and explosive-related crime reporting center. The center also collects information from other branches of federal law enforcement.
Federal explosives regulations: The ATF has provided explosives regulations as a means to help establish rules to go along with the sale and distribution of materials such as TNT. The guide also provides recommendations for proper storage of these components.
