Rep. Deutch: Investigate Possible Sanctions Violations by Pompano-Based Kalashnikov Factory

Statement

Today, Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-22) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury requesting information on reports that Kalashnikov USA, based in Pompano Beach, Florida, may have violated U.S. sanctions through its relationship with the Russian gun manufacturer Kalashnikov Concern. Congressman Deutch issued this statement:

"This story is layered with suspicious moves and questionable decisions. Kalashnikov USA, lured to Florida by Governor Scott, is reportedly using a web of shell companies to hide its relationship to the sanctioned Russian Kalashnikov company. In 2015, a year after the sanctions were put in place, Kalashnikov USA listed its parts and components as coming from Russia in its application for tax incentives. Even more troubling is this application was approved by Governor Scott's administration.

"It is shameful that the State of Florida and Governor Rick Scott appeared to bend over backward to recruit a gun company with questionable ties to Russian oligarchs, especially as nearly seventy percent of Floridians support a ban on assault-style rifles. This case deserves a full investigation to determine whether federal laws were broken to protect Kalashnikov's profits."

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