Chicago is known for its jaw-dropping architecture, lip-smacking Chicago-style hotdogs, loyal sports fans, and vibrant music. Located on the banks of mesmerizing lake Michigan, there is one more thing that Chicago ranks higher in-the rising gun crimes. Being the 3rd biggest metro city in the US, Chicago has one of the highest gun crimes. The University of Chicago Crime Lab stated that more than 80% of homicides involve some type of firearms.
As Chicago’s gun laws are quite tough, you might have a hard time defending yourself if you are involved in any gun crime in Chicago. Your best bet to get out of any firearm case would be to hire a top-notch criminal defense lawyer specializing in such cases. Whether you own a licensed firearm or not, it’s good to be informed about various gun laws in Chicago. To help you further, here are four common gun charges in Chicago that you should know.
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon(UUW)
The 720 5/24-1 Illinois Statute consists of Illinois’ penalties and offenses regarding the unlawful use of weapons (UUW). Though most of the violations in this law are considered misdemeanor level, the offender might face felony-level charges in some cases. A few unlawful uses of a weapon are followed under Illinois state law.
- Possession, sale, manufacturing, purchase, and distribution of specific weapons like switchblades and bludgeons
- Possession of deadly weapons like tasers and blades with the intent of using them against another person or people
- Possession of tear gas launcher or spring gun
- Possession of a firearm that isn’t according to the firearm concealed carry act, loaded and unlocked, easily accessible, not broken down.
- Manufacturing, sale, and purchase of explosive bullets
Breaking the above rules can lead to a Class A Misdemeanor charge, a fine of up to $2000, and a county prison time of 1 year. The charges can escalate to Class 4 Felony if you carry a deadly weapon or firearm in public events with admission fees, government license authorized public gathering or place that sells alcohol licenses. Trying to hide your identity with masks or a hood while carrying a weapon or firearm can also lead to Class 4 Felony.
2. Unlawful possession of a firearm
You must get a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card if you want to own a firearm in Illinois state legally. Carrying a gun without this permit can lead to unlawful possession of a firearm charge. Here are some of the situations that can lead to illegal possession of a firearm charge:
- Being under 18 and carrying a concealed firearm of any size
- Being under 21 and convicted of a misdemeanor
- Being under 21 and possessing a gun, and being delinquent
- Being addicted to narcotics and possessing firearms
- Being a patient of a mental health institution and possessing firearms
3. Aggravated Discharge of a weapon
Aggravated Discharge of a weapon happens when the firearm is used to jeopardize the lives of people. It is a Class 1 felony and typically applies to pistols, rifles, machine guns, and other types of firearms. It can also extend to other weapons like BB, pellets, and bows. The aggravated Discharge of a firearm happens in the following situations.
- Firing in the direction of people or a person
- Firing at a building that can be occupied with people
- Firing at a vehicle that can be occupied
4. Reckless Discharge of a weapon
If you haven’t realized yet that Chicago’s gun laws are quite tough, here is something that can convince you. A reckless discharge is defined as firing a firearm in a way that puts lives in danger. To make it a reckless discharge, it should be proven that it isn’t just reasonable doubt, and the weapon was used with no regard to the safety and lives of others.
If you find yourself being charged with any of the above gun crime charges, you must seek legal counsel as soon as possible. These charges can potentially destroy your life, so you need to hire a gun crime specialist attorney to maximize the chances of your acquittal.
