DC Rifle and Shotgun Carrying: No Felony Charges Under New US Policy
Federal prosecutors in the District of Columbia will no longer bring felony charges against individuals for possessing rifles or shotguns, according to a new policy by the U.S. Attorney’s office. This change applies to unregistered firearms but continues to pursue charges for violent crimes involving guns or when someone has a criminal record that makes firearm possession illegal. The policy aligns with Supreme Court decisions on gun rights, including the 2022 ruling that struck down a New York gun law and the 2008 District of Columbia v. Heller case. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, a former Fox News host, stated this shift follows Justice Department guidance and respects constitutional rights. The policy also overlaps with President Trump’s crime emergency declaration in DC, which has led to increased federal patrols and the seizure of 76 firearms. It covers large-capacity magazines but not handguns, and the U.S. Attorney emphasized ongoing efforts to prosecute gun crimes.