Firearms have a profound impact on the severity of criminal charges when used in illegal activities such as robbery or drug sales. Even crimes that are generally considered less violent can escalate to severe penalties if a firearm is present.
There are three particular ways in which the presence of a firearm exacerbates the consequences of a crime.
1. Increased penalties
When a firearm is present during the commission of a crime, the penalties for the offender can significantly escalate. This means longer prison sentences and heavier fines if convicted. Courts take firearm-related offenses very seriously due to the potential for harm they pose to individuals and communities.
2. Enhanced charges
The presence of a firearm often leads to the addition of enhanced charges to the original offense. For instance, a simple robbery charge can transform into armed robbery if the defendant used a firearm or even just displayed one during the crime.
3. Heightened risk and danger
The use of firearms in criminal activities not only increases the legal repercussions for offenders but also escalates the risk and danger faced by victims and law enforcement personnel. The potential for injury or death is a factor that courts will take into consideration when determining the severity of the sentence they will hand down in the event of a violent crime conviction.
Consequences for felons found with firearms
For individuals with prior felony convictions, possessing a firearm during the commission of a subsequent crime carries even graver consequences. In addition to facing charges related to the new offense, felons found with firearms can receive charges of illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This offense often results in mandatory minimum sentences and can lead to lengthy periods of incarceration.
The use of firearms in criminal activities exacerbates the severity of charges. Moreover, for individuals with prior felony convictions, possessing a firearm during the commission of a crime can lead to additional charges and harsher sentencing.