Federal Weapons Charges
Federal weapons charges involve the unlawful possession, use, transfer, or trafficking of firearms and other regulated weapons under federal law. These cases are prosecuted in federal court and often carry severe penalties, particularly when prior convictions, prohibited weapons, or sentencing enhancements apply.
Weapons statutes may apply to possession by prohibited persons, firearm trafficking schemes, use of a weapon during another crime, or violations involving restricted or regulated firearms. Multiple statutes are frequently charged together depending on the alleged conduct.
The statutes below govern how federal weapons offenses are defined, charged, and punished.
- 18 U.S.C. § 922 – Unlawful Acts (Firearms Offenses)
- 18 U.S.C. § 924 – Penalties and Sentencing Enhancements
- 18 U.S.C. § 930 – Possession of Firearms and Dangerous Weapons in Federal Facilities
- 18 U.S.C. § 931 – Prohibition on Possession of Body Armor by Violent Felons
- 18 U.S.C. § 932 – Straw Purchasing of Firearms
- 18 U.S.C. § 933 – Trafficking in Firearms
- 18 U.S.C. § 934 – Forfeiture and Fines (Firearms Trafficking Offenses)
- 26 U.S.C. § 5861 – Prohibited Acts (National Firearms Act Weapons)
Understanding Federal Weapons Laws
Federal weapons statutes regulate who may possess firearms, which weapons are restricted, and how firearms-related offenses are punished in federal court. These laws often intersect with other federal charges and can significantly increase sentencing exposure when enhancements apply.
Federal Weapons Defense
Weapons charges are treated seriously in federal court and frequently involve mandatory penalties or enhanced sentencing provisions. If you are under investigation or facing federal weapons charges, it is important to speak with an attorney who understands how these statutes are applied. Contact Combs Waterkotte online or call (314) 900-HELP to discuss your case with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney.
