San Jose Teen Charged for Alleged 3D Printed Ghost Gun Manufacturing

Authorities seized over 2 dozen unregistered firearms from the 18-year-old's bedroom.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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An 18-year-old San Jose resident named Jacob Reyes is facing criminal charges for allegedly using 3D printers to manufacture ghost guns in his bedroom. Police seized 27 finished or nearly finished firearms, some of which were modified to act as machine guns, along with ammunition from Reyes' home.

Why it matters

The case highlights the growing problem of 3D printed ghost guns, which are untraceable firearms that can be easily made at home without serial numbers or background checks. Authorities are concerned about the proliferation of these types of weapons and their potential use in crimes.

The details

According to the Santa Clara District Attorney's Office, Reyes had two working 3D weapon printers in his bedroom and had manufactured the majority of the 27 seized firearms using the printers. Some of the guns were modified to function as machine guns, and ammunition was also found in the home.

  • On February 25, 2026, authorities executed a search warrant at Reyes' residence and seized the 3D printed firearms and equipment.
  • Reyes was arraigned on February 27, 2026 on charges related to unlicensed manufacturing of firearms using a 3D printer and felony possession of a machine gun.

The players

Jacob Reyes

An 18-year-old San Jose resident who is facing criminal charges for allegedly manufacturing ghost guns using 3D printers in his bedroom.

Jeff Rosen

The Santa Clara County District Attorney who stated that authorities have taken an "arsenal of untraceable, illegal, and deadly weapons" off the streets.

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What they’re saying

“There is a black market of weapons thriving right under our noses. Once again, the DA's investigators and their law enforcement partners have taken off the streets an arsenal of untraceable, illegal, and deadly weapons.”

— Jeff Rosen, Santa Clara County District Attorney (ksro.com)

What’s next

If convicted, Reyes faces potential prison time for the charges related to unlicensed manufacturing of firearms using a 3D printer and felony possession of a machine gun.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threat of 3D printed ghost guns, which are increasingly being used to circumvent gun laws and regulations. It underscores the need for stronger policies and enforcement to address the proliferation of these untraceable firearms.