What is a Straw Purchase of Guns?
The possession, sale, and transfer of firearms are regulated by various laws and regulations in the United States. However, some individuals and organizations try to circumvent these regulations by engaging in illegal activities, such as straw purchasing. In this article, we will delve into the concept of a straw purchase of guns and its consequences.
What is a Straw Purchase?
A straw purchase is an illegal act where an individual buys a firearm for someone else who is prohibited from purchasing one themselves due to their background or legal status. The person buying the firearm on behalf of the prohibited person is known as the straw purchaser, and they typically do not intend to use the firearm themselves but instead plan to sell or give it to the intended buyer.
How Does a Straw Purchase Work?
Here’s an example of how a straw purchase works:
- An individual who is prohibited from purchasing a firearm due to their criminal history, mental health issues, or other reasons (referred to as the "prohibited person") asks a friend or acquaintance to buy a firearm for them.
- The friend or acquaintance (the straw purchaser) buys the firearm legally by completing the required background check and paperwork.
- The straw purchaser then gives the firearm to the prohibited person.
Types of Prohibited Persons
Prohibited persons who may try to buy firearms through a straw purchase include:
- Individuals who have been convicted of a felony or other serious crimes
- Those with a history of domestic violence
- Illegal immigrants
- Individuals who are adjudicated as mentally incompetent
- Those who have been committed to a mental institution or have a court order of involuntary commitment
- Users of controlled substances who are under the influence or are addicted
Consequences of Straw Purchases
Straw purchases can have severe consequences, including:
- Federal charges: Straw purchasers can be charged with federal offenses, such as making a false statement on a firearm application, concealing information about a transfer of a firearm, and aiding and abetting.
- Prison sentences: Straw purchasers can face prison sentences of up to 10 years and fines of up to $10,000.
- Criminal record: A conviction for a straw purchase can result in a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences on one’s ability to vote, own a home, and even obtain certain employment.
Significant Examples of Straw Purchases
Several high-profile cases have highlighted the dangers and consequences of straw purchases:
- In 2019, a man in Illinois was convicted of making false statements on a firearm application and buying a firearm for an individual who was prohibited from possessing one due to his prior conviction.
- In 2018, a man in Texas was arrested and charged with illegally purchasing a firearm for a man who was prohibited from possessing one due to his domestic violence conviction.
- In 2017, a man in California was sentenced to 10 years in prison for buying firearms for gang members who were prohibited from possessing them due to their criminal records.
Statistics on Straw Purchases
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), in 2018, there were over 400,000 firearm homicides in the United States. While not all of these homicides involved straw purchases, it is clear that this illegal activity contributes to gun violence and undermines public safety.
Table: Number of Straw Purchase Convictions (2016-2020)
| Year | Number of Convictions |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 2,141 |
| 2017 | 2,535 |
| 2018 | 2,761 |
| 2019 | 2,953 |
| 2020 | 3,147 |
Conclusion
A straw purchase of guns is an illegal act that puts public safety at risk and undermines the intent of firearm regulations. By buying firearms for prohibited persons, straw purchasers contribute to gun violence and perpetuate criminal activity. It is essential to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchases and to work with law enforcement agencies to prevent these illegal activities. By doing so, we can create a safer and more secure community for everyone.
Bullets Summary
- A straw purchase is an illegal act where an individual buys a firearm for someone else who is prohibited from possessing one.
- Straw purchasers can face federal charges, prison sentences, and fines.
- Prohibited persons who may try to buy firearms through a straw purchase include individuals with a criminal history, mental health issues, and illegal immigrants.
- Straw purchases contribute to gun violence and undermine public safety.
- Law enforcement agencies and the public must work together to prevent and detect straw purchases.
