ATF Raids Home of Ken Ballew for Grenades
June 7th, 1971
June 7th, 1971

How Long Ago?
53 years, 9 months, 8 days ago
Location
United States
Category
Crime & Law
People
- Ken Ballew
- Agents of the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Division
Links & References
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- Grenade
- Internal Revenue Service
- Ken Ballew raid
Tags
ATF Raids Home of Ken Ballew for Grenades
Agents from the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Division of the IRS raided the home of Ken Ballew in June 1971, uncovering illegal possession of hand grenades. This operation highlighted concerns over unregulated firearms and explosives during a time of increasing crime rates in the United States. The authorities aimed to enforce stricter regulations on weapon possession.
Agents found illegal hand grenades in the raid.
Operation aimed at enforcing weapon possession laws.
Highlight of rising crime concerns in the 1970s.
Part of broader federal enforcement initiatives.
What Happened?
In June 1971, federal agents from the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Division of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service executed a raid on the residence of Ken Ballew. The operation targeted illegal firearm possession, specifically focusing on the discovery of hand grenades, which were unauthorized and heavily regulated under U.S. law. The raid was part of a broader effort to combat rising crime and violent offenses associated with unregulated weaponry during this tumultuous period of American history. Authorities were increasingly aware of the dangers posed by individuals possessing explosive devices without proper oversight.
Why Does it Matter?
The raid on Ken Ballew's home is significant as it reflects the growing concerns about public safety related to weapons and explosives. It underscored the need for stricter enforcement of federal firearm laws. This incident is particularly interesting because it marked a turning point in law enforcement's approach to dealing with illicit weapon possession, leading to a focus on both public safety and stricter regulatory measures in response to rising violence.
Discover More Historic Events from June 7th
Myanmar Air Force Y-8 Crashes into Andaman Sea
A Myanmar Air Force Shaanxi Y-8 aircraft crashed into the Andaman Sea near Dawei, Myanmar, resulting in the loss of all 122 individuals on board. The military transport aircraft was on a routine flight when it encountered difficulties. Emergency services and recovery efforts were initiated to locate the wreckage and retrieve the passengers’ remains.
Continue ReadingUN Establishes Blue Line Between Israel and Lebanon
The United Nations officially defined the Blue Line, serving as the border between Israel and Lebanon, following Israel's withdrawal from Southern Lebanon. This demarcation was based on Israel's withdrawal and aimed to create a clear boundary that would help reduce tensions in the region.
Continue ReadingMount Pinatubo Erupts with Massive Ash Column
Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines erupted, creating an ash column that reached heights of 7 kilometers (4.3 miles). The eruption began after several weeks of volcanic activity and was one of the largest volcanic eruptions of the 20th century. It released a tremendous volume of ash and gases into the atmosphere, significantly impacting air quality and climate. The eruption occurred largely due to the movement of tectonic plates in the region, and its aftermath was felt not only locally but also across the world.
Continue ReadingSurinam Airways Crash during Approach to Paramaribo
Surinam Airways Flight 764, a McDonnell Douglas DC-8, crashed on approach to Paramaribo-Zanderij International Airport due to pilot error, resulting in the deaths of 176 of the 187 people aboard. The flight commenced from Amsterdam, Netherlands, carrying passengers and crew when it encountered difficulties during landing procedures. The aircraft reportedly failed to maintain proper altitude and airspeed, leading to a devastating impact shortly before touchdown.
Continue ReadingGraceland Opens to Public by Priscilla Presley
Priscilla Presley opened Graceland to the public, allowing fans to explore the iconic estate that was home to her late husband, Elvis Presley. The event marked a significant step in preserving Elvis's legacy and making his life accessible to admirers. Although many areas of Graceland were open for viewing, the bathroom where Elvis tragically passed away remained closed to visitors. This decision reflected a desire to maintain a sense of dignity around the circumstances of his death, while celebrating his life and musical impact.
Continue ReadingIsraeli Air Force Strikes Iraq's Nuclear Reactor
The Israeli Air Force conducted Operation Opera, targeting Iraq's Osiraq nuclear reactor, which was believed to be aimed at developing nuclear weapons. The airstrike, executed on June 7, 1981, involved eight F-16 fighter jets that successfully destroyed the reactor before it could become operational. This preemptive strike was justified by Israeli officials as a necessary action to protect national security amid rising tensions in the region.
Continue Reading