North Pima News

Arizona Rep. Selina Bliss, along with fellow lawmakers Travis Grantham and Quang Nguyen, have called for an investigation into the transfer of firearms to Ukraine. In a letter addressed to Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, the lawmakers urged her to initiate both criminal and civil investigations against Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and other council members.

The controversy stems from allegations that the city of Phoenix donated hundreds of unclaimed guns to Ukraine. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes conducted an investigation and concluded that the Phoenix City Council had violated state law. This led to criticism from lawmakers, prompting Bliss, Grantham, and Nguyen to take action.

"If you can't do the time, don't do the crime!" said Rep. Bliss.

The intention to transfer the firearms to Ukraine was initially reported in July, which prompted Bliss and Nguyen to write a letter expressing their concerns about the potential unlawfulness of the donation. The proposal involved donating approximately 600 unclaimed firearms, valued at around $200,000, to the National Police in Kyiv, Ukraine.

However, state law stipulates that unclaimed firearms can only be sold, not donated. The buyer must be a business authorized to receive and dispose of firearms, and the firearms must be sold to the public in accordance with federal and state law, unless prohibited.

In their letter to Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, Bliss, Grantham, and Nguyen emphasized that the Attorney General's report and the City's repeal of its ordinance do not absolve Mayor Gallego and council members of criminal or civil liability. They stated that significant legal and factual questions remain, and the city has refused to disclose the date that the firearms were illegally sent abroad.

The lawmakers are urging Mitchell to hold Mayor Gallego and other council members accountable for violating state law. They believe that a thorough investigation is necessary to ensure that those responsible for the transfer of firearms to Ukraine are held accountable for their actions.

The controversy surrounding the transfer of firearms to Ukraine has sparked criticism and opposition from lawmakers. The call for an investigation by Rep. Bliss, Grantham, and Nguyen demonstrates their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring transparency in government actions.