Officer suspected of improper weapons purchases

On Behalf of | May 3, 2017 | criminal defense |

Indeed, curbing gun violence is a top priority for police departments today. To do this, local authorities conduct additional investigations with federal law enforcement bureaus to uncover illegal weapons sales. Sometimes these investigations may unwittingly ensnare local police officers.

Such may be the case with a high-ranking Pasadena police officer whose home was raided by federal agents. According to a latimes.com report, federal agents confiscated nearly 60 firearms, including 30 handguns, 20 rifles and three shotguns. The weapons were reportedly worth tens of thousands of dollars. 

The raid ostensibly came as a result of a letter sent from the local ATF chief to law enforcement agencies regarding the proliferation of “off roster” guns purchased by police, Such guns are not part of the approved list of weapons that can be sold in California. However, a special provision excepts law enforcement officers. Nevertheless, there was a growing suspicion that some officers were acting as weapons dealers.

The officer has been placed on administrative leave and has not been charged with a crime. The situation exemplifies the need for officers in these positions to be represented by experienced legal counsel. As we noted, the officer has not been charged with a crime, but the publicity of being the subject of a federal investigation could easily lead to adverse actions later, whether they are administrative or criminal.

If you are under investigation (whether external or internal) for a possible crime or administrative sanctions, it is prudent to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney.

The preceding is not legal advice.