Can You Own a Stun Gun in California?
Can You Own a Stun Gun in California?
There are many different weapons or weapon-like objects available to people (some are legal, whereas others are not). In some cases, like guns, there are extensive state and federal regulations barring access to the weapons, and in other cases, there are only certain limitations. This article will discuss the possession and use of stun guns (often called Tasers) in the state of California. If you have been considering having a stun gun and you have any questions or concerns, reach out to us and one of our experienced criminal attorneys will help you.
Who Can Own a Stun Gun?
In California, the law has placed legal restrictions on the possession and use of a stun gun. According to California Penal Code 22610, a person can legally purchase and use a stun gun, but there is a myriad of limitations.
However, before we get into the details, it is important to first define a stun gun. A stun gun is a hand-held device used for self-defence. The stun gun has an electric voltage and when the gun touches a person’s body, the current immobilizes the person who has been touched. You may have heard of a Taser and while that is also a stun gun, it’s a specific brand and type of stun gun. The Taser allows you to stun someone from multiple feet away.
Given that a stun gun can affect a person like any other weapon, there are restrictions on its use. The following individuals are prohibited from owning or using a stun gun: those with prior assault convictions, felony convictions, narcotics addictions, or are below the age of 16. If the aforementioned people are found buying, possessing or using a stun gun, it is a criminal offense. Moreover, there are also certain locations where having a stun gun is not allowed. For example, a person may not have a stun gun inside of an airport.
Penalties Against Improper Possession or Use of Stun Gun
There are penalties for the misuse of a stun gun; therefore, before purchasing or using one, make sure you are legally permitted to do so. If you are not allowed to have a stun gun and you are convicted, you will face an infraction. However, if you are convicted of this crime multiple times, the penalty increases to a misdemeanor or a felony (depending on the circumstances of the crime and your criminal history).
