Veteran ATF Agent Robert Cekada Elevated to Deputy Director Position

After three decades in law enforcement and twenty years with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Robert Cekada has been named Deputy Director of the agency, placing him in its second-highest leadership role.

Cekada's ascension to Deputy Director follows his previous role as Executive Assistant Director of Operations, a position he held since September 2022. In that capacity, he managed the agency's Office of Regulatory Operations, Office of Field Operations, and Office of Intelligence Operations. His ATF journey began in 2005 when he joined as a Special Agent in the Baltimore Field Division's Hyattsville Field Office, where he contributed to the Regional Area Gang Enforcement Task Force.

Prior to joining the ATF, Cekada built his law enforcement foundation with the New York Police Department, specializing in anti-gang initiatives, and with the City of Plantation Police Department in Broward County, Florida, where he served in both the Patrol Division and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team.

His appointment has garnered support from firearms organizations, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). According to the NSSF, during his tenure as Special Agent-in-Charge, Cekada has worked alongside the firearms industry to enhance public awareness about illegal gun sales while supporting lawful Second Amendment exercise.

"Deputy Director Cekada possesses the experience, wisdom, and peer respect needed to effectively lead the men and women of the ATF," stated Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF senior vice president and general counsel, in an announcement regarding the appointment. "He recognizes that the firearms industry isn't an adversary but a valuable ally that supports ATF's core mission of fighting violent crime. Firearms retailers serve as frontline partners in preventing criminal acquisition of firearms and provide vital intelligence to ATF special agents about illegal straw purchasing activities."

The NSSF has maintained a 25-year collaboration with the ATF through the "Don't Lie for the Other Guy" program, which educates the public about the severe consequences of straw purchasing—buying firearms for individuals who cannot legally purchase them or wish to avoid association with the transaction. This federal offense carries penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment and fines reaching $250,000.

Additionally, the NSSF partners with the ATF on "Operation Secure Store," an initiative designed to enhance security measures at firearms retailers to prevent thefts and burglaries. As part of this collaborative effort, NSSF matches ATF reward offers up to $5,000 for information resulting in the arrest and conviction of suspects in these crimes.

"The NSSF anticipates working with Deputy Director Cekada on behalf of the firearms industry and reestablishing a mutually respectful and productive dialogue on shared objectives that will enable our members to thrive economically while enhancing community safety," Keane added.