Can a Felon Own a Gun in Missouri?
In the United States, the ownership of firearms is heavily regulated, and felons are prohibited from possessing or purchasing guns. Missouri, like many other states, has its own set of laws and regulations regarding gun ownership, including for individuals with felony convictions. In this article, we will delve into the details of Missouri’s laws and explore whether a felon can own a gun in the state.
Direct Answer: Can a Felon Own a Gun in Missouri?
No, a felon cannot own a gun in Missouri. According to the Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) § 571.101, a person who has been convicted of a felony is prohibited from possessing a firearm. This law is in line with federal laws, which also prohibit felons from owning or possessing firearms.
Federal Law Prohibitions
Federal law prohibits felons from owning or possessing firearms. The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) and the Firearms Owners Protection Act of 1986 (FOPA) both prohibit individuals convicted of a felony from possessing or purchasing firearms. Additionally, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is used to screen potential gun buyers, including felons, to ensure they are not prohibited from owning a firearm.
Missouri State Laws
Missouri state laws also prohibit felons from owning or possessing firearms. RSMo § 571.101 states that a person who has been convicted of a felony is prohibited from possessing a firearm, including a shotgun, rifle, or pistol. This law applies to both state and federal convictions.
Exceptions
There are some exceptions to Missouri’s law prohibiting felons from owning guns. RSMo § 571.101 provides that a person who has been convicted of a felony may petition the court for relief from the prohibition after a certain period of time has passed. The petition must be filed with the court and must demonstrate that the person has been rehabilitated and is no longer a threat to public safety.
Restoration of Rights
In Missouri, felons may be able to have their gun rights restored through a process called expungement. RSMo § 560.120 allows a person who has been convicted of a felony to petition the court to expunge their record after a certain period of time has passed. If the petition is granted, the felony conviction is removed from the person’s record, and they may be eligible to own a gun again.
Consequences of Violating the Law
Violating Missouri’s law prohibiting felons from owning guns is a serious offense. A person who is found guilty of possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison and fined up to $10,000.
Table: Felony Convictions and Gun Ownership
| Felony Conviction | Gun Ownership Prohibited? |
|---|---|
| State Felony Conviction | Yes |
| Federal Felony Conviction | Yes |
| Misdemeanor Conviction | No |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a felon cannot own a gun in Missouri. Missouri state laws and federal laws prohibit individuals with felony convictions from possessing or purchasing firearms. While there are some exceptions to the law, including the possibility of having one’s gun rights restored through expungement, owning a gun as a felon is a serious offense with severe consequences. It is essential for individuals with felony convictions to understand and comply with the laws regarding gun ownership in Missouri.
