ATF

ATF "Gunwalking" scandal timeline

Share
this
Gallery

Sept. 2009: In an effort to stem the rising tide of violence caused by Mexican drug cartels, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Phoenix office begins its controversial Operation "Fast and Furious."

The idea is to encourage gun dealers to sell to suspected traffickers for Mexican drug cartels and see where the guns end up. The goal is to try to take down a major cartel. But the so-called "gunwalking" becomes increasingly controversial among ATF agents ordered to take part.

Author: CBS News Staff

Credit: AP Photo/Felix Marquez

  • 48 Hours iPad App

    Big changes for the 2012-2013 season! Watch the current week's episode for FREE up to a week after it airs or subscribe for access to all shows, classic episodes and more!