Chicago City Wire

Glock Inc. will stop producing its current pistol models and introduce new products that are designed to prevent conversion into fully automatic weapons, following pressure from the City of Chicago. This move comes after a Cook County Circuit Court denied Glock’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the city. The lawsuit claims that Glock knowingly makes firearms that can be illegally converted using “Glock switches.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson commented on the decision, stating, "We know that Glock switches have been used in the vast majority of mass shooting incidents in our city. They have taken far too many lives and caused tremendous pain and suffering in our communities,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “I’m proud that Chicago led the way in holding these gun manufacturers accountable. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to end gun violence in Chicago.”

Corporation Counsel Mary B. Richardson-Lowry added, “Glock’s recently reported decision to discontinue its current models is an important step towards curbing the spread of illegal guns on our streets,” said Corporation CounselMary B. Richardson-Lowry. “The City’s lawsuit highlighted how Glock firearms could be easily modified with switches—small devices that convert semiautomatic pistols into fully automatic weapons.  This decision reflects the impact of sustained legal action and the urgent need for reform.”

According to reports, Glock will halt production and sales of its existing models as of November 30.

Chicago was the first government entity to file suit against Glock over this issue, which prompted similar lawsuits from attorneys general in New Jersey, Minnesota, and Maryland, as well as legislative efforts at state levels in Illinois and California.

Between early 2021 and May 2024—when Chicago filed its lawsuit—over 1,300 Glocks modified with switches were recovered by law enforcement in Chicago.

Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood stated, “This is a major step forward for the City of Chicago and other jurisdictions across the country that have been terrorized by these devices,” said Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood. “Pulling every possible lever, we will continue to address the root causes of gun violence as we work to ensure every Chicagoan can feel safe in their community.”

The city’s Department of Law plans to continue seeking injunctive relief and civil penalties related to harm caused by these weapons.