Can a Convicted Felon Own a Gun in Louisiana?
The Short Answer
No, a convicted felon cannot own a gun in Louisiana. According to Louisiana law, it is illegal for a person who has been convicted of a felony to possess or own a firearm.
The Long Answer
In Louisiana, the possession or ownership of a firearm by a convicted felon is a serious offense. La. R.S. 14:94.1 states that "no person who has been convicted of a felony under the laws of this state or of any other state or of the United States shall own, possess, or control any firearm." This law applies to all types of firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
Felony Convictions that Disqualify Gun Ownership
Not all felony convictions disqualify an individual from owning a gun in Louisiana. La. R.S. 14:94.1 specifies that only certain felony convictions are considered "serious" and disqualify an individual from owning a firearm. These include:
• Manslaughter: The intentional killing of another human being.
• Murder: The intentional killing of another human being with malice aforethought.
• Arson: The intentional destruction of property by fire.
• Aggravated rape: The rape of another person using force or threat of force.
• Kidnapping: The taking of another person against their will.
• Aggravated battery: The intentional infliction of serious bodily harm on another person.
Exceptions to the Rule
While convicted felons are generally prohibited from owning a gun in Louisiana, there are some exceptions to this rule. La. R.S. 14:94.1 states that an individual who has been convicted of a felony may petition the court to restore their right to own a firearm if:
• Five years have passed since the completion of their sentence: The individual must wait five years after completing their sentence before they can petition the court to restore their right to own a firearm.
• The individual has demonstrated good behavior: The individual must demonstrate good behavior and comply with all laws and court orders during the five-year waiting period.
• The court grants the petition: The court has the discretion to grant or deny the petition to restore the individual’s right to own a firearm.
Consequences of Violating the Law
Violating the law by possessing or owning a firearm as a convicted felon in Louisiana can result in serious consequences. La. R.S. 14:94.2 states that a person who violates this law can be sentenced to:
• Up to 10 years in prison: A person who is convicted of possessing or owning a firearm as a convicted felon can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.
• A fine of up to $10,000: A person who is convicted of possessing or owning a firearm as a convicted felon can be fined up to $10,000.
• Loss of civil rights: A person who is convicted of possessing or owning a firearm as a convicted felon may also lose their civil rights, including the right to vote and own a firearm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a convicted felon cannot own a gun in Louisiana. While there are some exceptions to this rule, the possession or ownership of a firearm by a convicted felon is a serious offense that can result in serious consequences. It is important for individuals who have been convicted of a felony to understand the law and comply with it to avoid violating their rights and freedoms.
Table: Felony Convictions that Disqualify Gun Ownership
| Felony Conviction | Description |
|---|---|
| Manslaughter | Intentional killing of another human being |
| Murder | Intentional killing of another human being with malice aforethought |
| Arson | Intentional destruction of property by fire |
| Aggravated Rape | Rape of another person using force or threat of force |
| Kidnapping | Taking of another person against their will |
| Aggravated Battery | Intentional infliction of serious bodily harm on another person |
Bullets: Consequences of Violating the Law
• Up to 10 years in prison
• Fine of up to $10,000
• Loss of civil rights (right to vote and own a firearm)
