'Operation Gravedigger' Nets Assault Rifles, Handguns in NJ - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

'Operation Gravedigger' Nets Assault Rifles, Handguns in NJ

An investigation dubbed "Operation Gravedigger" has helped detectives with the New Jersey State Police Weapons and Trafficking Unit and the Trenton Police Department seize more than a dozen assault rifles, handguns and shotguns.

The investigation began in March 2012 and targeted illegal firearm sales in Trenton.

Investigators say they arrested eight people on gun-related charges, and seized 16 guns, including five assault rifles, five handguns, three shotguns and three rifles.

Detectives say one of the seized assault rifles had a 90-round drum magazine.

According to New Jersey State Police, the suspects involved in the investigation sold one or more guns to an undercover detective or operatives.

"These individuals allegedly were trafficking guns to anyone willing to pay their price, and they evidently didn't care what violence would be inflicted with their deadly wares," Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa said in a statement.

The suspects range in age from as old as 31 to as young as 19. All of the suspects are from New Jersey.