Trump's Gun License: NYPD Targets a New York 'Firing'
Donald Trump may need to rely solely on his Secret Service protection as New York is set to revoke his gun license following his 34 felony convictions in the hush money trial.
With his recent conviction on felony charges, Donald Trump is on the verge of losing his New York gun license, significantly impacting his ability to possess firearms legally. Although he's managed to transfer one of his guns to Florida and retains Secret Service protection, the legal implications are severe. This move by New York authorities serves as a stark reminder of the complications arising from Trump's legal battles, highlighting the broader challenges he faces even as he remains a prominent public figure.
The revocation process comes as no surprise, given Trump's extensive legal troubles and the stringent laws surrounding firearm possession by convicted felons. Once convicted, individuals are generally barred from possessing firearms under both state and federal law, which puts Trump in a precarious position concerning his remaining gun in Florida. It’s a curious case when one’s weapons start needing their own defense attorneys.
Trump's New York City gun license had already been suspended following his March 2023 indictment on criminal charges. At that time, he surrendered two firearms to the NYPD, abiding by legal requirements. Unlike the rest of us when we lose something, Trump can't exactly put a call out on Craigslist for his missing pistols.
Interestingly, Trump had one of his guns legally relocated to Florida — a strategic move now under scrutiny. Given that possessing a firearm as a convicted felon is a federal crime, whether the gun is in New York, Florida, or Timbuktu, he faces the possibility of violating federal laws even beyond state lines. One might wonder if the gun has had to adjust to the Floridian humidity.
Indeed, Trump's legal team must now navigate the complex web of federal and state laws that govern firearm possession by convicted felons. Any attempt to retain a firearm—whether it’s held by himself or kept under lock and key in another jurisdiction—risks further complicating his already intricate legal woes. Like playing legal Whack-A-Mole, each solution seems to pop up a new problem.
The NYPD's Legal Bureau will complete its investigation, which is expected to lead directly to the revocation of Trump's gun license. While the former president can seek a hearing to challenge this decision, history suggests overturning such a revocation is an uphill battle. If it's any consolation, it will be one of the few battles he doesn't wage on social media.
Amidst all this, Trump’s decade-long concealed carry license from the NYPD was suspended upon his indictment on criminal charges in March 2023. As a former president, he continues to receive full-time Secret Service protection, a detail which might render his personal firearm collection somewhat redundant. Trump surrendered two of his guns to the NYPD on March 31, 2023, while a third gun listed on his license was lawfully moved to Florida. Considering the legal circumstances, if convicted of the charges, his possession of any remaining firearms could lead to multiple state and federal violations.
There are potential loopholes and reprieves available to Trump, including the possibility of an appeals court overturning his felony convictions. If successful, Trump could legally keep his firearms. For now, though, the legal prospect may not seem as shiny as the polished barrels of his previously licensed guns.
Another possible avenue could be for Trump to apply for a certificate of relief from civil disabilities. Such a certificate facilitates certain rights post-conviction, though it is by no means a guaranteed or routine process. Perhaps someone can suggest an express lane for former presidents?
It’s also worth noting that the details of Trump’s initial gun license application and the subsequent requests for confidentiality make it difficult to gauge the full scope of his firearm-related dealings. Trump’s preference for discretion in this area is a stark contrast to his typically boisterous public persona.
Adding a layer of irony to the situation, Trump recently delivered a keynote speech at the National Rifle Association’s annual meeting, where he received a formal endorsement from the group. While he waxed lyrical on Second Amendment rights, the looming revocation of his own gun license casts a curious shadow over the endorsement. It's the type of situation that almost begs for a John Grisham novel.