Since its launch on January 1, 2024, Operation Press Check (OPC), led by the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD), has focused on keeping firearms out of the hands of individuals prohibited from possessing them. The initiative is a collaboration with the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
OPC was created to strengthen investigations and prosecutions related to Felon in Possession of Firearm (FIP) cases. Through joint efforts, specialized training, and intelligence-driven policing, OPC has become central to FCPD’s approach to reducing gun violence and increasing public safety.
The department reports that prior to OPC’s implementation in 2023, there were 26 FIP cases resulting in 24 firearms seized. In its first year (2024), OPC saw an increase to 66 cases and 55 firearms seized. For 2025 so far, there have been 38 cases with 57 firearms recovered. Since its inception, OPC has resulted in a total of 104 FIP cases and 112 firearms seized.
These results are attributed to proactive enforcement measures and collaboration between local detectives, prosecutors, and federal partners working together to identify illegally possessed weapons.
Operation Press Check also addresses threats posed by weapons modified with Machinegun Conversion Devices (“switches”). FCPD officers have investigated and prosecuted several such cases involving these illegal firearm modifications.
The operation relies on both internal partnerships—such as those among the Criminal Intelligence Unit (CIU), Crime Analysis Unit (CAU), and Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy—and external collaborations with agencies like ATF and NIBIN. These alliances support data-driven enforcement actions and advanced investigative strategies.
“Together, these collaborations ensure every FIP case is pursued with thorough investigation and expert prosecution,” according to the release.
As Operation Press Check moves into its third year in 2026, police say they will continue focusing on identifying repeat offenders and removing illegal guns from circulation. “There is no safe place for illegal firearm possession in Fairfax County,” states the department.
Community members are encouraged to report information about illegal firearm possession anonymously via Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS or through the “P3 Tips” app. Anonymous tips may qualify for cash rewards. Residents can also register their security cameras through Connect Fairfax County to assist law enforcement investigations.