PHILADELPHIA (May 12, 2026) — Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and the DAO’s Gun Violence Task Force (GVTF), alongside Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, announced on Tuesday charges against Defendant Kobe Artis for the Illegal Transfer of Firearms and other related charges.
The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office is charging Defendant Kobe Artis (DOB 02/03/2002) with the following:
- 6111 (Illegal Transfer of Firearms) (2 counts) (F3, F2)
- 6111 (Illegal Transfer of Firearms) (2 counts) (M2)
- 6115 (2 counts) (M1)
On May 4, 2026, at approximately 7pm, City and State Sworn Law Enforcement Personnel assigned to the DAO’s Gun Violence Task Force Unit observed Defendant Artis, and two other individuals on social media. Artis is holding a distinct AR style pistol with a white sticker on the magazine and a white buffer tube with black lettering on it. Defendant transferred the AR style pistol and a black handgun with a RMR (ruggedized miniature reflex sight) attachment to an individual who is prohibited from possessing firearms.
An arrest warrant was approved, and Defendant was apprehended today with firearms in his possession.
District Attorney Larry Krasner’s Comments:
“The heinous actions of Defendant Kobe Artis are disgraces to our Philadelphia community. Walking around like a one-man army is absolutely intimidating, frightening, disturbing and troubling to witness. Defendant Artis is not a role model for anyone. His unlawful actions will be appropriately prosecuted and he will be held accountable.”
Councilmember Quetcy Lozada Statement:
“I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to District Attorney Krasner and his dedicated team for their unwavering attention to this pressing matter.
Today, we gather to address a critical issue that profoundly impacts the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods, particularly here in Kensington. This individual thought it was ok to walk around, misinform, and illegally connect individuals with firearms.
I’m grateful he is off the streets because our community is a little safer tonight. One less illegal weapon off our streets is one step closer to the safer environment that Kensington residents deserve.
Guns on our streets pose an undeniable danger. When firearms are placed in the hands of individuals who lack the skills to handle them responsibly and do not fully understand the law, we invite chaos into our communities.
We have worked tirelessly as a city to enhance the quality of life in Kensington—yet the sight of individuals wielding automatic weapons, treating our streets like a battleground, is not reflective of who we are or what we stand for.
Yes, we face challenges. However, the answer is not to escalate violence or introduce more firearms into our community.
Automatic weapons do not belong on our streets, and we must be loud and clear about this. The sale of firearms to those who are unqualified, to those who have not undergone the necessary processes, will be met with zero tolerance. Not in Kensington, not in our city.
Let us work together—residents, law enforcement, public officials—to create a safer city for all. Let’s stand united in our commitment to protecting our community and ensuring that Kensington remains a place where all can thrive without fear.”
Please see the link to Announcement of Charges on Social Media Platforms:
- https://www.facebook.com/100068015863171/videos/937745472487959