United States of America v. Devaughn Odne Crayton

Fairbanks, Alaska criminal defense lawyer represented the Defendant charged with felony possession of a firearm.



Federal firearm laws regulate the manufacture, sale, and possession of firearms in the United States. These laws are primarily enforced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Key legislation includes the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) and the National Firearms Act (NFA).

Key aspects of federal firearm law:



Licensing:

Federal Firearms License (FFL) is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or dealing in firearms.



Prohibited Persons:

Certain individuals are prohibited from possessing firearms, including convicted felons, fugitives, unlawful drug users, those with specific mental health adjudications, and others.

Background Checks:

Federal law mandates background checks for most firearm sales, conducted through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).

National Firearms Act (NFA):

This act regulates certain firearms, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles and shotguns, silencers, and destructive devices, requiring registration and taxation.

Minimum Age:

Federal law generally requires individuals to be 21 years old to purchase handguns and 18 years old to purchase long guns from licensed dealers.

Interstate Transactions:

Federal law regulates the interstate transport of firearms and requires specific procedures for transfers between states.

Record Keeping:

FFLs are required to maintain records of firearm transactions, which aid in tracing firearms involved in crimes.

Possession of Prohibited Firearms:

Federal law prohibits the possession of certain firearms, including machine guns manufactured after May 19, 1986, and firearms with obliterated serial numbers.

Penalties:

Violations of federal firearms laws can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines.



Summary of Federal Firearms Laws—October 2023



Possession of Firearms by Prohibited Person. Possession of a firearm by a "prohibited person" is illegal. Under 18 U.S.C. § 922 (g...

Count 1: 20 month Imprisonment; 3 years of Supervised Release; $100.00 Special Assessment. Defendant to forfeit interest in the property to the United States.