This episode contains graphic descriptions of gun violence.

According to a new analysis provided exclusively to CNN, the number of shootings involving automatic weapons in the US has sharply risen over the past few years. We examine how a small piece of plastic can transform a semi-automatic weapon into a machine gun in a matter of moments and how law enforcement is responding.

Guest: Curt Devine, CNN Investigates Producer

To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices