Whitehorse man wanted in connection with alleged 3D-printed gun trafficking

A Whitehorse man has been charged with several firearms-related charges, in connection with a B.C. investigation into the alleged making of 3D-printed "ghost guns."

Anthony Luis Eduardo Desjarlais, 28, faces five counts related to firearms manufacturing, trafficking, possession and unsafe storage.  

A warrant is out for his arrest and police are working to bring him into custody. 

Police with B.C.'s Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU-BC) say the illegal firearms manufacturing investigation began in August 2022 after Canada Border Services intercepted a shipment of firearm parts used in the manufacture of 3D-printed guns. The weapons are often referred to as "ghost guns," as they do not have serial numbers and cannot be traced. 

Tracking that package led police to execute a search warrant at a residence in Whitehorse in February 2023. Police found items at the residence "consistent with an alleged firearms manufacturing operation" as well as two conventional firearms, according to a news release from the CFSEU-BC. 

Last Friday, police officially laid charges against Desjarlais in connection with the operation. 

The investigation was carried out collaboratively with several law enforcement agencies, including Yukon RCMP and the CFSEU-BC, which targets gang violence and organized crime. 

"Yukon RCMP were pleased to support, and work closely with our policing partners… throughout this investigation," said Yukon RCMP Staff Sgt. Eric Lane in a written statement. 

"This investigation demonstrates concrete ways the Yukon RCMP is contributing to the Yukon's Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy by combatting organized crime."

Police in Yukon and B.C. declined interviews, and said in an email that no other information would be released "as the matter is before the courts." 

RCMP are asking anyone with information about Desjerlais's whereabouts to contact the Whitehorse detachment.