Battle for Los Angeles: How to Deal with Weapons Charges

Posted on April 10, 2008
Filed Under Assault, Criminal Law, Felonies, Gangs, Law, Laws, Los Angeles, News, Three Strikes, Tips |

Weapons are a serious issue in and around Los Angeles, with everything from guns, knives and even brass knuckles playing a part in a variety of crimes.  Not only does this up jail time for other felonies, but possession of a weapon can bring with it criminal charges in and of itself.

In spite of a variety of legislative measuresthe state of California and city of Los Angeles have taken, weapons still find their way into the lives of everyday individuals.  These laws and bans against certain types of weaponry (usually “cop-killing” type arsenals) also carry with them heavy jail time.  These laws were passed, because of instances such as:

  • In LA recently a 23-year-old was shot dead outside a liquor store over a gang related matter.  Both the victim and the alleged perpetrator were part of the same gang.
  • In another incident, a cabbie was first accosted by a man with a gun, and after then speeding away he was stabbed by the two women who were in his cab at the time.  The two women were killed when the man crashed his car.

In dealing with crimes like this, the Los Angeles Police Department has its own CSI style unit that, while not employing handsome detectives and beautiful criminologists, can do a great deal of research on a weapon found.  This forensic laboratory can find finger prints, DNA, blood and just about anything else necessary. 

There are also programs such as the WARN program to help schools and communities battle against the influx of weapons in their area.

Here are some tips on handling, owning and transporting your weapon:

1. You may transport your weapon throughout California, but it must be in a locked container.  However assault rifles must be registered and kept can only be transported from one location to another if approved.

2. Keep weapons out of the hands, reach and sight of children.

3. All firearms must be registered with the state.

4. Ammunition sales people are criminally liable for selling ammunition to underage individuals.

5. Possessing an illegal assault weapon for a .50 BMG rifle is a separate offense from any other criminal activity.

6. Weapons charges may also become a strike under California’s three strike laws, so having a proper attorney during such proceedings is vital.

Written by Joe M

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