Cambridge man charged with building an illegal arsenal of guns, rifles

Cambridge Police reports arresting a local man they say was running an armory out of his Seven Pines Avenue home.

Mathew Devine, 39, was arrested on 26 counts of illegal possession of a firearm, 6 counts of illegal possession of a large-capacity feeding device, 3 counts of possession of a silencer, and 1 count each of possession of ammunition and use of body armor in the commission of a felony. He is scheduled for arraignment in Cambridge District Court today, police say.

Police raided Devine's home and a Gold Star Road residence belonging to a relative yesterday, following a four-month investigation. Police say that officers seized 25 handguns and 3 assault rifles, along with parts to make "dozens of additional illegal firearms," hundreds of rounds of ammunition, five bullet-proof vests and other body armor, and milling machines.

The investigation began in early July 2018 after the Cambridge Police Department were notified by the United States Postal Inspection Services of suspicious activity occurring at Devine’s 43 Seven Pines Avenue residence. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that more than 75 packages worth more than $26,000 were delivered to Devine, including a complete AR-15 build kit and a milling machine, with return addresses primarily originating from gun and weapon companies. The gun parts were purchased online, distributed through the mail and assembled into untraceable complete firearms. Devine did not have a license to carry.

In addition to Cambridge Police, the Postal Inspection Service, the US Marshal's office, the New England Electronic Crimes Task Force and the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office also participated in the investigation.

Police add they are continuing to look into Devine's business. Anybody with tips can contact them at 617-349-3300.