Paterson Man Indicted in 3D-Printed Ghost Gun Operation
A federal grand jury has indicted a Paterson man on multiple firearms-related charges following an extensive investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that uncovered a sophisticated illegal weapons manufacturing and trafficking operation. Authorities seized numerous 3D-printed “ghost guns,” machine gun conversion devices, and other illicit firearms from the residence of the accused.
Mikhail Gouldson, 36, faces five separate federal charges that could result in decades of imprisonment if convicted. The indictment, handed down on March 10 in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, represents a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat illegal firearms trafficking in the region, according to ICE officials.
Sophisticated Arsenal Discovered
Law enforcement agents discovered a concerning array of weapons and manufacturing equipment during their search of Gouldson’s residence. The seized items included 3D-printed “ghost gun” frames, which lack serial numbers and are untraceable, as well as machine gun conversion devices that can transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons.
Additionally, authorities confiscated firearm silencers, short-barreled rifles, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and a 3D printer allegedly used to manufacture components. “We seized an alarming number of firearms, ammunition, and equipment from Gouldson’s residence that was capable of bringing a lot of destruction into our community,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel in Newark.
The investigation revealed that Gouldson, a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, had allegedly been receiving multiple shipments of weapon parts and components through the mail. These shipments were intercepted by law enforcement during the course of their investigation, according to Shore News Network.
Multi-Agency Cooperation
The case highlights significant collaboration between federal agencies. The ICE-led investigation received support from the FBI office in Cherry Hill, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Newark, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Philadelphia Division.
“Our incredible partnership with the FBI in Cherry Hill, ATF in Newark and the United States Postal Inspection Service’s Philadelphia Division in this investigation supported the Paterson Violent Crime Initiative to combat violent crime in their city,” Patel noted in an official statement. “We remain steadfast to their commitment to public safety of all New Jersey communities by holding violent offenders like this firearms trafficker accountable.”
Federal grand jury in Newark indicts 36 year old Mikhail Gouldson on gun possession and gun trafficking charges.https://t.co/fMB2fhiKgZ
— The Tornado News (@TheTornadoNews) March 10, 2025
Serious Federal Charges
The five-count indictment against Gouldson includes charges of dealing in firearms without a license, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of machine guns, possession of unregistered firearms, and attempted trafficking in firearms.
If convicted, Gouldson faces substantial prison time. The possession of firearms by a convicted felon and attempted trafficking charges each carry maximum sentences of 15 years in prison. The possession of machine guns and unregistered firearms counts each carry maximum penalties of 10 years’ imprisonment, while dealing in firearms without a license could result in up to 5 years behind bars. Additionally, each count carries a potential maximum fine of $250,000.
Ghost Guns: A Growing Concern
This case underscores increasing law enforcement concern about the proliferation of 3D-printed firearms, commonly known as “ghost guns.” These weapons are particularly problematic for law enforcement because they lack serial numbers, making them untraceable when recovered at crime scenes.
The accessibility of 3D printers and online availability of digital weapon designs have made it increasingly difficult for authorities to control the spread of these illegal firearms. Individuals prohibited from legally purchasing firearms, such as convicted felons like Gouldson, can potentially manufacture weapons at home while avoiding background checks and registration requirements.
Law enforcement sources indicate that the Paterson case is part of a broader effort to target illegal firearms trafficking operations throughout New Jersey, with particular focus on untraceable ghost guns and automatic weapon conversions that have been linked to rising violence in several communities.
Ongoing Investigation
While authorities have not released details about potential customers or the scope of Gouldson’s alleged operation, the investigation appears to be ongoing. The case falls under the umbrella of the Paterson Violent Crime Initiative, a collaborative effort to reduce violent crime in the city.
Federal prosecutors have not indicated whether additional arrests are expected in connection with the case. Gouldson’s initial court appearance date has not been publicly announced. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, which is prosecuting the case, declined to provide additional comments beyond the information contained in the indictment.
