Common Charges for Illegal Gun Sales in Indiana
Not only is it against the law to carry a handgun without a license when required, it is also illegal to sell or transfer a firearm to a person who is not allowed to purchase or own a firearm themselves. These unlawful gun sales and transfers are often referred to as a straw purchases.
Illegal Gun Sales and Straw Purchases
Under to IC 35-47-2-7, a person who knowingly or intentionally sells, gives, or transfers a handgun to another person who the person knows is ineligible for any reason other than the person’s age to purchase or otherwise obtain a handgun or intends to use the handgun to commit a crime commits criminal transfer of a handgun, a Level 5 felony. However, the offense is a Level 3 felony if the other person uses the handgun to commit murder.
Additionally, a person who purchases a handgun with the intent to (1) resell or provide the handgun to another person who the person knows is ineligible to purchase a handgun, (2) resell the handgun to another person who the person knows intends to use the handgun to commit a crime, or (3) transport the handgun outside Indiana to be resold to another person who the person knows is ineligible to purchase a handgun or intends to use the handgun to commit a crime, commits the straw purchase of a handgun, a Level 5 felony. However, the offense is a Level 3 felony if the other person uses the handgun to commit murder.
As you can see, a charge for violating this law is very serious, carrying possible jail time, probation and fines. If you have been accused of illegal gun sales or a straw purchase, you need an experienced attorney fighting for you and aggressively defending your rights.
Criminal Defense Attorney and Former Deputy Prosecutor
Julie Chambers spent nearly five years as a deputy prosecutor in Marion County. In 2012, she left that position to open Chambers Law Office, working to defend the rights of those facing criminal charges from the State of Indiana. She will work with you to explain the criminal process step by step, listening to your concerns and striving to obtain the best possible result in your case. Call today to speak with an attorney. 317-450-2971.