Connecticut Judge Rejects $7.7 Million Penalty Against Florida Ghost-Gun Maker
A Connecticut court dismissed the state's attempt to fine Florida firearms maker Indie Guns nearly $7.7 million for operating its website.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong filed a lawsuit against Indie Guns, an Orlando-based firearms manufacturer, and three additional companies, alleging violations of the state's Unfair Trade Practices Act through the sale of "ghost gun" parts. The state sought a daily fine of $5,000 for each day the company's website remained active, amounting to nearly $7.7 million. In a 51-page opinion, Judge Daniel J. Klau concluded that the law does not cover out-of-state entities simply because they operate an online site, and therefore denied the requested penalties.
While the judge indicated he could impose a $5,000 fine for a single sale to a state investigator, the larger website-based sanction was rejected. The ruling also referenced Indie Guns’ Instagram post mocking the attorney general, though the account has since been removed. Tong’s office said it is reviewing the decision and weighing further options.
Why it matters
The decision limits how states can penalize out-of-state gun sellers, affecting future enforcement of ghost-gun regulations.
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