California Special Agents to Seize 40,000 Guns

California's Governor recently authorized $24 million to be used to confiscate guns currently owned by about 20,000 people in the state who have been disqualified for weapon ownership. California's Department of Justice (DOJ) will be able to hire 36 new agents and support staff as a result of the new funds. The special agents will begin their confiscation efforts this summer, with the task of removing approximately 40,000 weapons from people in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, and Riverside over a three-year period. These gun owners are traceable through a database that cross-references their names with the names of those who are later disqualified from ownership.

The disqualifications come as a result of criminal convictions, being named in restraining orders, or due to mental illness. Of those who have been disqualified for gun ownership, 32 percent have become ineligible due to a felony or violent misdemeanor conviction, about 30 percent for mental health problems, 20 percent for domestic violence restraining orders, and another 18 percent because they are wanted by law enforcement for violent crimes. In the last two years, approximately 4,000 people were investigated by the existing group of DOJ special agents, who have seized around 4,000 weapons in the process, including 300 assault weapons. The California Attorney General's Office hailed the effort, stating that California is leading the nation in protecting the public against dangerous gun owners.

Legal Representation for Weapons Charges in Orange County, California

With all of the focus on the use of weapons and their dangers to the general public, weapon charges have become a serious legal matter. Anyone arrested and charged for violating gun laws or for using a weapon in the commission of another crime will have need of competent legal representation. The criminal defense law firm of Thomas Tears, Attorney at Law, provides the kind of aggressive and experienced legal help that can make a difference in the outcome of your case.

Mr. Tears has more than 30 years of experience as an attorney, which includes competent litigation skills and trial experience in the local courts. He and his legal team handle all types of criminal cases, including drunk driving, drug crimes, theft crimes, sex crimes, white collar crimes, violent crimes, and more. Experience is a key factor in any profession. For those facing criminal charges, it is a vital that you retain the services of an attorney with a proven track record. To learn more about how Mr. Tears and his team can help you, contact the firm for a free case consultation immediately following any arrest.