In August of last year, a 24-year-old man was a passenger in a vehicle that law enforcement tried to pull over in Fresno. Reportedly, the vehicle sped away instead of following law enforcement’s commands. After speeding away, the vehicle crashed into another vehicle.
Following the wreck, the 24-year-old man exited the vehicle and ran away. As he ran away, he tossed away a loaded handgun. Law enforcement caught up to the man and recovered the gun he tossed aside. The man was taken into custody.
According to KSEE 24, as a result of the incident above, the 24-year-old man recently pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He is scheduled to be sentenced in January.
What Are the Penalties if a Convicted Felon Is Caught with a Gun in California?
Reportedly, the 24-year-old in the story above is facing up to 10 years in prison and fines of as much as $25,000. In California, convicted felons are not allowed to be in possession of firearms. This can include having the weapon on them and in their control. It can also involve having the weapon nearby, such as in your car, office, or home. If a convicted felon is found guilty of being in possession of a firearm, they can face severe penalties, including the following:
- Up to 3 years in county jail
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Deportation (if they are not a U.S. citizen)
The punishments may be even more severe than those above if the convicted felon has previously been found guilty of being in possession of a firearm or was found guilty of committing other crimes at the same time they were found in possession of a firearm.
There are legal defenses for convicted felon firearm possession that an experienced criminal defense lawyer can use to help people facing charges for this offense. Examples include self-defense, justifiable possession, and lack of knowledge.
Facing Felony Charges? Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Fresno for a Free Consultation
For more than two decades, The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch has been successfully handling criminal cases. He knows what it takes to protect his clients’ rights and give them the best opportunity to have the felony charges they’re facing reduced or dismissed. To learn more about The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch, and how we can help you secure the most favorable outcome possible for your situation, read our clients’ testimonials.
For more information about legal defenses against felony charges in California, or for a free consultation with our experienced criminal defense lawyer in Fresno, call us at (559) 484-2112 or contact us online today.