Federal Firearms Charges in Tulsa, Oklahoma
United States federal law has a number of different firearms violations with which a person can be charged. Federal firearms charges are always serious and can mean years in prison if you are convicted. Here is information about some of the more common federal firearms charges.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition
Federal law prohibits certain people from legally possessing a firearm or ammunition. These people include:
- felons;
- drug users;
- drug addicts;
- anyone who has been adjudicated as a mental defective;
- a person who has been committed to a mental institution;
- someone who is subject to a domestic restraining order;
- a person who has a prior conviction for domestic assault;
- illegal aliens;
- aliens who have been lawfully admitted under non-immigrant visas;
- fugitives from justice; and
- anyone who has been dishonorably discharged from military service.
18 US Code § 922
It is also unlawful for a minor to buy a firearm. A juvenile convicted of a violation under this statute usually faces misdemeanor punishment, which is probated for first offenders.
It is also illegal to sell, give, or dispose of any firearm to any person who is prohibited from possession.
Firearms violations carry stiff penalties. Many possession charges carry prison terms of up to 10 years.
It is illegal for people to import, produce, or conduct transactions in firearms across state lines unless you are a federally licensed firearms dealer.
False Statement Made in Connection with a Firearm Purchase
Federal law requires people purchasing any sort of firearm to fill out certain forms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms requires that a gun purchaser fill out ATF Form 4473. This form is designed to ensure that the purchaser is not one of the classes of people prohibited from owning a firearm. It is against the law to answer any question on this or other related forms untruthfully.
Also, you are not allowed to purchase a firearm for another person. This same form asks whether the person is buying the firearm for themselves. Knowingly making a false statement on this form is a federal crime punishable by up to five years in prison.
Use of a Firearm in Connection with a Crime of Violence or a Drug Trafficking Crime
Criminal charges involving firearms and drugs often go hand in hand. So do firearms and violent crimes.
Federal firearms violations are often coupled with violations of other federal laws. For example, firearms violations are often coupled with drug possession and trafficking charges.
When coupled with either a drug felony or the furtherance of another violent crime, an offender who is in possession, brandishes, or discharges a firearm could face anywhere from five years to life in prison without parole — or even the death penalty if a death occurs as a result. 18 US Code § 924
In addition, this prison time is added to any prison time attached to the associated violent crime or drug crime. For a second offense, the mandatory minimum sentence is 25 years to life.
There are other types of firearms violations under federal law. Bring your questions and concerns regarding federal firearms crimes and charges to a Tulsa felony attorney with experience handling federal criminal matters.
Free Consultation: Tulsa Federal Criminal Lawyers
Get the help you need. It’s time to retain a Tulsa criminal defense lawyer who is knowledgeable regarding federal law and procedure and who will look out for your legal interests. Contact a Tulsa criminal attorney at Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation.
A Tulsa defense attorney can advise you on how the process works and offer answers to your specific questions. To begin your free consultation, call 918-256-3400 now.