There are a variety of weapons charges, some seem strange, but law enforcement take those charges very seriously. One such weapon charge is being arrested for using an imitation fire arm. California Penal Code 417.2 covers imitation fire arms, and these charges come with serious consequences. This law states: Any person who, for commercial purposes, purchases, sells, manufactures, ships, transports, distributes, or receives, by mail order or in any other manner, an imitation firearm except as permitted by this section shall be liable for a civil fine in an action brought by the city attorney of the city or the district attorney of the county of not more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each violation.
Using a imitation fire arm or another type of imitation weapon (rubber knife, etc.) in a mugging, assault or other attack is also a crime, and will carry serious jail time.
Below are some highlights on other state laws for weapons in California, specifically targeting firearms:
- It is unlawful for anyone convicted of a felony, or who is a drug addict, present or former mental patient, ever committed for mental observation, or acquitted by reason of insanity to own or possess any firearm.
- People with certain misdemeanor convictions involving force or violence may not possess or own any firearm within 10 years of the conviction.
- A person who has been adjudicated as a juvenile offender or delinquent for any offense which would be classified as a felony or misdemeanor involving force or violence if committed by an adult may not own or possess any firearm until age 30.
- A minor may not possess a handgun except with written permission or under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
- A minor under 16 may not possess a handgun, unless they are accompanied by their parent or guardian while participating in a legal recreation activity involving firearms or has written permission to participate in such activities.
- A minor under 16 may not possess live ammunition except with the written permission or under the supervision of a parent or guardian, or while going to or from an organized lawful recreational or competitive shooting activity or lawful hunting activity.
