Attorney General Letitia James Announces Settlements in Buffalo Mass Shooting Case Involving MEAN Arms
The New York Attorney General, Letitia James, visited Buffalo to announce settlements related to the mass shooting that occurred on May 14, 2022. One of the lawsuits targeted MEAN Arms, a gun accessory manufacturer, for violating New York's SAFE Act by selling the MA Lock device. This device was designed to make AR-15 style rifles compliant with New York laws by preventing the attachment of high-capacity magazines. However, the shooter in the Buffalo incident was able to easily remove the device and use 30-round detachable magazines to carry out the tragic shooting.
Attorney General James highlighted that MEAN Arms promoted the MA Lock as easily removable, providing instructions on the packaging and online videos demonstrating its removal. The shooter, Peyton Gendron, exploited this feature to modify the rifle and carry out the deadly attack at Tops Friendly Markets on Jefferson Avenue, resulting in the loss of 10 lives and injuries to several others. As part of the settlement, MEAN Arms agreed to cease selling the device in New York and update all product packaging to reflect its prohibition in the state.
Furthermore, MEAN Arms will compensate the families of the victims, individuals injured, and innocent bystanders affected by the shooting with a payment of $1.75 million. Attorney General James honored the memory of the 10 victims during her press conference, emphasizing the devastating impact of the incident on the community. The settlements reached aim to address the consequences of the misuse of the MA Lock device and provide support to those affected by the tragic events in Buffalo.
In conclusion, the settlements announced by Attorney General Letitia James in connection with the Buffalo mass shooting underscore the importance of accountability and responsibility in the sale and use of gun accessories. MEAN Arms' agreement to cease selling the MA Lock in New York and provide compensation to the victims' families and survivors reflects a commitment to addressing the repercussions of gun violence and promoting safer practices in the industry.