Ridgeland Man Sentenced for Possessing Illegal Machine Gun

Beaufort, SC, January 9, 2026

Emanuelle Hargrove Jr., 25, from Ridgeland, was sentenced to six years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing a machine gun. This case highlights the seriousness of illegal firearms modifications and the efforts of law enforcement to ensure community safety by enforcing strict federal laws against such dangerous weapons.

Ridgeland

A Ridgeland man, Emanuelle Hargrove Jr., 25, was sentenced to six years in prison on Thursday in Beaufort, S.C., after pleading guilty to possessing an illegal machine gun. This legal action underscores a firm resolve to hold individuals accountable for such offenses.

Details of the Offense

Hargrove’s conviction stems from his possession of a handgun that had been illegally modified, or “switched,” to function as a fully automatic weapon. The modification effectively transforms a standard firearm into a machine gun, significantly increasing its rate of fire and potential danger. Such conversion devices are strictly prohibited under federal law, and their unauthorized possession carries severe penalties. Hargrove Jr. entered his guilty plea on Thursday, exactly two years after his initial arrest for the illegally modified weapon. His DNA was later found on the firearm. The charge stemmed from a traffic stop on January 8, 2024, when a Beaufort Police officer observed a Nissan Altima with a non-functioning brake light. During the stop, the officer detected the smell of burnt marijuana, leading to a probable-cause search of the vehicle where the modified Glock 31 handgun was discovered beneath the front passenger seat.

Legal Ramifications and Public Safety

The U.S. justice system views offenses involving illegal machine guns with extreme gravity due to the inherent threat these modified weapons pose to public safety. Possessing a machine gun, as defined by federal statutes, includes any weapon that fires, is designed to fire, or can be readily restored to fire, automatically more than one shot without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. Devices like “switches” specifically fall under this definition, converting otherwise semi-automatic weapons into illegal machine guns. The proliferation of such conversion devices has become a significant concern for law enforcement agencies. These modifications circumvent the stringent regulations associated with automatic firearms, which are generally only accessible to military and law enforcement agencies under very strict conditions. This case serves as a clear indicator of the legal system’s proactive stance against the unauthorized ownership and use of such dangerous weapons. The enhanced lethality and indiscriminate nature of a fully automatic weapon, especially one illegally modified, present a substantial and unacceptable risk to communities and law enforcement personnel. The decision to pursue a guilty plea and the subsequent substantial sentencing reflect the seriousness with which these types of firearms offenses are treated by prosecutors and the courts. Penalties for violating federal machine gun laws can include up to 10 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.

Community Impact and Deterrence

The sentencing of Hargrove Jr. is a critical part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address the illegal possession of firearms, particularly those modified to increase their destructive capabilities. These efforts are primarily aimed at deterring similar crimes and enhancing community safety by systematically removing dangerous weapons from circulation. The consequences for illegal firearm possession, especially for machine guns, are considerable, often including lengthy prison sentences and substantial financial penalties. This case reaffirms the commitment to enforcing federal firearms laws to protect the public from the dangers posed by illegally modified automatic weapons. The prosecution emphasizes that individuals who choose to possess such illegal firearms will face significant legal repercussions, demonstrating that such violations are not taken lightly. Law enforcement officials continuously work to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those involved in the manufacture, distribution, and possession of these prohibited devices. The successful resolution of cases like Emanuelle Hargrove Jr.’s is crucial in maintaining the integrity of firearms regulations and ensuring a safer environment for all citizens. This particular sentencing sends a strong message regarding the unwavering resolve of legal authorities to combat gun violence and the illicit trade of highly dangerous weapons, reinforcing the principle that unlawful weapon possession will be met with severe judicial action.

The community impact of illegal machine guns extends beyond immediate violent acts, potentially fostering an environment of fear and instability. The illegal alteration of firearms undermines all efforts to regulate gun ownership responsibly and creates a direct threat to peace and order within neighborhoods. This case should therefore serve as a potent cautionary tale about the severe consequences awaiting those who disregard federal firearms laws. The focus remains steadfast on robust enforcement and prosecution to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law. The judicial system’s comprehensive response to such crimes is designed not only to punish offenders for their actions but also to deter others from engaging in similar illegal activities. The sustained commitment to prosecuting these cases is a vital component of a broader national strategy to reduce gun-related crime and enhance the overall security of communities. The collaboration between various law enforcement agencies is often instrumental in tracing, apprehending, and successfully prosecuting individuals involved in illegal firearm activities, reinforcing the message that such actions will not be tolerated in any community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Emanuelle Hargrove Jr. sentenced for?

Emanuelle Hargrove Jr. was sentenced for possessing an illegal machine gun.

How old is Emanuelle Hargrove Jr.?

Emanuelle Hargrove Jr. is 25 years old.

Where did the sentencing take place?

The sentencing of Emanuelle Hargrove Jr. took place in Beaufort, S.C..

What kind of weapon did Emanuelle Hargrove Jr. possess?

He possessed a handgun that had been illegally modified, or “switched,” to function as a fully automatic weapon.

When was Emanuelle Hargrove Jr. arrested?

His initial arrest for the illegally modified weapon was exactly two years prior to his sentencing on Thursday.

Key Features of the Case

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Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.