Recently, Mel Gibson’s past misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence has come back into the spotlight. This was sparked by a Trump administration official who claimed she lost her job for not supporting Gibson’s effort to have his gun rights restored.
This situation highlights an important aspect of U.S. gun laws. Typically, those with minor convictions can still own guns, but it’s different for domestic violence cases. After Gibson’s conviction in 2011, he lost the right to possess firearms. Federal laws prohibit individuals with felony convictions and certain domestic violence misdemeanors from owning guns.
There are solid reasons why the law takes a stricter stance on domestic violence. Research shows that victims are over five times more likely to be killed if their abuser has access to firearms. Additionally, domestic violence often follows a repetitive cycle, meaning offenders frequently reoffend.
Under federal law, there are nine categories of people banned from owning guns, two of which relate specifically to domestic violence. One of these laws was introduced in 1984, preventing individuals who are under a valid domestic violence protection order from possessing firearms. Such an order is issued when a judge determines that there’s a credible threat to the victim. It typically includes restrictions against harassment, stalking, and physical harm.
Understanding these laws is crucial as they aim to protect victims and reduce the risk of fatal violence. The balance between individual rights and community safety continues to spark debate, especially in high-profile cases like Gibson’s.
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Source linkSupreme Court (US),Gibson, Mel,Lautenberg, Frank R (1924-2013),United States
