National Trends:
- Dramatic declines in ATF enforcement activity since 1992
ATF declines a marked contrast to other federal investigatory agencies
While ATF staffing down some, enforcement drop much larger
Trends vary by lead charge; weapons up 25% in 1998 while drugs down
Other agencies playing greater role in weapons enforcement
Prison sentences which initially rose are now falling
- ATF fourth in likelihood its referrals get prosecuted
Prison sentences for ATF weapons convictions among longest
ATF relies on one statute for most of its referrals
Some rural districts show more ATF activity than major urban centers
Districts vary in liklihood ATF referrals are prosecuted
Prison sentences vary widely by district
