Attorney General Michelle Henry has announced the arrest of Richard Taylor, a suspected straw purchaser in Philadelphia. The Office of Attorney General’s Philadelphia Gun Violence Task Force has linked Taylor to at least 31 illegal firearms purchases and an alleged solicitation for murder.
Taylor, aged 37, was apprehended following a straw purchase and an agreement regarding a murder-for-hire plot. He faces multiple charges, including 31 felony counts under the Uniform Firearms Act, false swearing, corrupt organizations, and criminal solicitation of homicide. His bail is set at $5 million with no postings yet made.
The investigation revealed that 12 of the guns purchased by Taylor were recovered by Philadelphia police during various arrests across the city. Nine of these firearms were found on individuals during their apprehension. None of the firearms were reported lost or stolen by Taylor.
Investigators claim that Taylor acquired at least 31 firearms and transferred them illegally. Fourteen remain unaccounted for. "We have a wealth of examples to show that illegally-obtained firearms are often used for criminal activity, and oftentimes, in deadly shootings," stated Attorney General Henry. She emphasized collaboration with law enforcement partners to track such firearms and those profiting from illegal transactions.
The investigation showed that Taylor procured firearms from gun shops and online platforms. He reportedly told others he could supply numerous firearms due to his clean criminal record.
In April, Taylor attempted to sell a firearm he had straw purchased and solicited someone to commit murder, offering $200 and a Glock handgun as payment. He provided details about the intended target to the potential hitman.
Taylor was arrested on April 26 at Frank’s Gun Shop in Philadelphia after completing another straw purchase.
The Philadelphia Gun Violence Task Force collaborates with local, state, and federal agencies to monitor straw purchases and illegal firearm transfers while addressing related violence incidents. Last year alone, they seized over 500 firearms and participated in nearly 400 investigations within Philadelphia.
All charges against Taylor are accusations at this stage; he remains innocent until proven guilty in court.