We Are ATF
A dedicated team of professionals securing America's future by accomplishing a critical law enforcement mission.
Mission
We are a unique law enforcement agency in the United States Dept. of Justice that prevents, detects and responds to acts of terrorism and violent crime. We investigate and prosecute terrorist acts and violent crime that involve explosives, arson and firearms; repeat and violent offenders; criminal gangs; the illegal use and trafficking of firearms and explosives; arson; and the illegal illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products.
We partner with communities, industry, law enforcement and public safety agencies to safeguard the public we serve through information sharing, training, research and technology.
Values
We value integrity, diversity, commitment, innovation and excellence.
We value partnerships that promote the safety of our communities.
History
ATF's history dates from 1789, when the first Congress imposed a tax on imported spirits to help pay for the Revolutionary War debt. Today, ATF works to remove from our communities the most violent criminal violators of Federal laws relating to alcohol, tobacco, firearms, explosives and arson. Through a system of licenses and permits for firearms and explosives, ATF assures that the legal commerce in these sensitive commodities is soundly administered.
Diversity – Representing America by Representing You
Our goal is to ensure our work force is reflective of the communities that we serve.