What amI facing ifI unknowingly was in possessing of a stolen firearm?
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What amI facing ifI unknowingly was in possessing of a stolen firearm?
I was stopped by the police and my vehicle was searched. I have a handgun permit and I had 2 handguns with me, one of which was reported stolen. I have had it for approximately 15 years and it was reported stolen in 1993 in NV. They took it (and my other gun). I purchased the stolen gun from an individual who is now deceased. I did not know it was stolen and wantto know if iIwill face any charges? I have no record, even a traffic ticket.
Asked on December 28, 2010 under Criminal Law, Tennessee
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Generally speaking you risk fines and imprisonment for the charge of possession of a stolen firearm. The fact that you have no prior convictions (so you are not a felon in possession of a stolen firearm) is a plus. And the fact that you have a handgun permit is a plus as well. But you need to bring some proof of your story to the table here. The fact that you did not know that it was stolen does not really serve as an excuse. Were you formally arrested and charged? Were you arraigned? Were you assigned an attorney? You need to speak with a criminal attorney in your area as soon as you can to start to mount your defense. Good luck to you.
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