What is Possession of Ammunition in the District of Columbia
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Possession of Ammunition in the District of Columbia
DC ammunition laws are strict and carry significant criminal penalties if you do not have a license to carry. This charge is generally connected to a firearm violation where the firearm is found with ammunition in it. Even if you find or are carrying one bullet it could still be a violation of DC Laws. Ammunition possession in DC is illegal unless you meet one of the exceptions:
- You are a licensed dealer – a firearm dealer that is.
- You have a valid registration certificate for a firearm;
- You hold an ammunition collector’s certificate;
- You are participating in a firearms training and safety class conducted by a firearms instructor;
- You are law enforcement on duty and acting within the scope of his duties when possessing such ammunition
What if I have a Valid Registration for a Firearm in another State?
That is still a violation of ammunition laws in the District of Columbia as you must have a valid license in DC for a firearm.
What is the Definition of Ammunition in DC?
The DC Code defines Ammunition as cartridge cases shells or projectiles. The shells or casing have propellant powder, materials designed, or intended for use in a firearm or destructive device.
What is a large capacity ammunition feeding device?
Some people are also charged with another ammunition violation called Large Capacity ammunition violation. Its exactly as it sounds – it’s a magazine, belt, drum, feed strip, or device that has a capacity of, or converted to accept, more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
What is the penalty for possession of Ammunition?
The maximum penalty for possession of ammunition a fine of up to $1,000 or be imprisoned for not more than one year, or both.
Is Possession of Ammunition a Misdemeanor or Felony?
Possession of ammunition is a misdemeanor unless the ammunition is intentionally sold or transferred to a person under 18 years of age. If you sell or distribute to person under 18 you could be sentenced up to a $ 25,000 fine or imprisoned for not more than 10 years, or both. It is also a felony if this is a subsequent offense – which carries up to $2500 or 5 years in prison.
What is a Restricted Bullet?
A Restricted pistol bullet is a bullet that may be used in a pistol and which is built without the presence of traces of one or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper, or depleted uranium. It is also a full jacketed projectile larger than .22 caliber designed and intended for use in a pistol whose jacket has a weight of more than 25% of the total weight of the projectile. It also can ammunition for a .50 BMG rifle.
Should I Hire an Attorney if Charged with Possession of Ammunition?
Yes, absolutely. You should hire an experienced DC Ammunition Lawyer to handle your matter. While these cases are usually misdemeanors the collateral consequences of a criminal record for ammunition possession can have dire consequences.