A Detailed Guide to Gun Crime Charges and Penalties in Philadelphia
The city of Philadelphia has witnessed a significant increase in gun-related crimes in the past few years. Reports published in the 2022 Chicago Data Portal have shown cases of a whopping 1,500 non-fatal shooting victims, and about 500 homicides, which have made Philadelphia one of the hotspots for gun-related crimes.
So, you might be thinking that you are well aware of the gun laws here in Philadelphia. But there are several nuances concerning the possession, carrying, and transferring of firearms. And missing out on any of these might as well result in a violation, with severe consequences. That’s why you should always consider hiring a reputable Pittsburgh criminal lawyer to make sure that your rights are protected.
That being said, let’s explore this blog till the end to understand the charges and penalties related to gun crimes in Philadelphia.
Charges and Penalties Associated with Gun-Related Crimes
Unlicensed possession of a firearm
You may have purchased a gun legally. However, if you choose to carry it without a license to carry a concealed firearm, you’re at risk of facing charges.
Title 18, Section 6106 of the Pa.C.S states unlicensed possession as a third-degree felony. It carries penalties of up to 7 years of incarceration, along with fines up to $15,000.
Felon in possession
People with prior felony convictions are prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm in Philadelphia! Such convictions can bring about a second-degree felony charge, which includes up to 10 years of imprisonment, along with steep fines.
Possessing firearms with an altered serial number
Every firearm has a serial number, which helps in identification. So, if you tamper with that or possess a firearm with an altered serial number, it portrays that you were trying to hide the firearm’s origin.
Title 18, Section 6110.2 of the Pa.C.S states this as a second-degree felony. You can face up to 10 years of incarceration along with hefty fines.
Possessing firearms at the airport
Supposedly, you unknowingly carried your firearm to the airport and forgot to carry your concealed carry permit! This is considered a third-degree felony and carries penalties like up to 7 years in prison, along with fines of up to $15,000.
Not just that, but the TSA might further impose fines ranging anywhere from $1,500 to $13,910, depending on whether the gun confiscated from you was loaded or not. The consequences might be severe, so it is better to have a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer by your side if you’re facing such charges.
Concealed weapon violations
If you’re an out-of-state resident, you might want to check on the concealed carry permits of Pennsylvania. Many such visitors assume that their concealed carry permits would be valid in Pennsylvania, and face severe consequences when caught!
Title 18, Section 6109 of the Pa.C.S states concealed weapon violations as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. A first-time offender might face misdemeanor charges, while repeat offenses might just lead to felony charges!
Straw purchase of firearms
This phenomenon occurs if you buy a firearm on behalf of someone who has been legally prohibited from owning or purchasing firearms. It is a serious offense here in Pennsylvania and carries a second-degree felony charge, with penalties of up to 10 years of incarceration, along with significant fines.
Possessing a firearm on school property
Carrying a firearm to school is strictly prohibited in Pennsylvania. Even the most minor infractions of this crime might lead to severe legal repercussions. The Pa.C.S states such offenses as a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries up to 5 years of imprisonment, and hefty fines. Not just that, but your reputation suffers a long-lasting negative impact.
Gun-related offenses carry quite serious charges and can bring about some life-altering consequences. So, if you, or someone you know, is facing such charges, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer ASAP. Call us at 412-387-6901 to schedule a consultation and protect your future.