A new bill has recently passed the legislature and is awaiting signing by Governor Perry to make it official This law is designed to take a proactive step to preventing the growing illegal weapons trade between Texas and Mexico.
According to this piece from the Houston Chronicle, guns are often smuggled from Texas cities like Houston into Mexico where weapons are typically banned from civilian possession. This gun trade and the opposite flowing drug trade have significantly contributed to crime in our state.
The new law makes “firearm smuggling” a state offense. Already a federal crime, this new state law will affect people caught smuggling multiple guns more than once, for profit. Because the feds often don’t have the resources to prosecute on all federal gun charges, this will give Texas the option of prosecuting on a state level.
Firearm smuggling will be a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison. When compared with other weapons charges currently on the books in Texas, this one seems quite serious.
An existing firearm offense, possession of a prohibited weapon, is typically considered a 3rd degree felony and carries 3-10 years in prison. This law applies to weapons like machine guns and short-barreled shotguns and rifles.
Although the second amendment guarantees our right to bear arms, there are many laws that regulate this right. Knowing them all would require a law degree.
If you are facing weapons charges in the state of Texas, it is beneficial to have an experienced and local attorney working on your behalf. I can help you figure out the best way to handle your case and may be able to assist you in getting probation in lieu of jail time.
In order to determine how to help you with your case, I need to hear from you. Call me to discuss the details today.
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