Theft of a firearm is different from other types of theft. If you are charged with stealing firearms or receiving stolen firearm goods, you could be facing harsh felony punishments. Call us today for a free consultation if you were charged with stealing a fiream (412) 281-2146.
Types of firearm the law applies to include (but are not limited to):
- Handguns — single-shot pistols, revolvers or semi-automatic pistols;
- Long guns — rifles and shotguns (manual, semi-automatic, fully automatic);
- Carbines;
- Machine guns or personal defense weapons.
Whereas penalties for other types of theft often depend on the value of the stolen property, the consequence of a stolen firearms sentence is more severe. Common theft can result in varied fines or charges, from a summary offense to a misdemeanor. On the other hand, if you are facing a firearm theft charge in Pennsylvania, it could lead to a potential first-degree felony conviction with serious jail time. A permanent criminal record would also damage your reputation, credit report, and chances for future employment. By hiring an experienced Pittsburgh weapons theft attorney, you could drastically reduce these charges and avoid the worst penalties.
Penalties for Firearm Theft
According to Pennsylvania Criminal Code, Title 18 § 3903(a), an offense is considered a felony of the second-degree, associated with up to ten years in prison, and $25,000 in fines, if you:
- personally commit theft by unlawful taking or disposition, and the property stolen is a firearm;
- receive firearm that was stolen by someone else;
- retain or dispose of a firearm that was illegally obtained by someone else.
However, firearm theft cases can be considered a first-degree felony offense if the amount of stolen firearm is valued at $500,000 or more. This scenario would also be appropriate in the instance that stolen property received retained, or disposed of is a firearm, and the receiver of the goods is involved in the business of buying or selling stolen property. When a perpetrator is found guilty of a felony in the first-degree, he could be confronted with a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.
How a Pittsburgh Firearm Theft Lawyer Can Help
The consequences of a firearm theft allegation can be disastrous. Violators of the law, if found guilty, can face up to twenty years in prison with hefty payments, and a permanent felony charge on their record. When you or a family member is charged with firearm theft, you should immediately contact an experienced Pittsburgh firearm lawyer for assistance. Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC is available for free consult at (412) 281-2146 and will be able to review the evidence against you, collect documentation or testimony to prepare a solid line of defense.
Our Pittsburgh criminal defense attorneys have successfully fought against other firearm and weapons violations, and helped past clients reduce or dismiss their charges. Not only are we committed to attaining the most optimal outcome in your situation, but we will also provide advice and guidance in navigating through each stage of a complex legal system. Since extended delays could further jeopardize your case, we recommend that you contact our office as soon as possible for a free consultation.
