by Attorney Eric D. PuryearThe crime of Possession of a Stolen Firearm in Illinois is defined by 720 ILCS 5/24-3.8 as follows:
A person commits possession of a stolen firearm when he or she, not being entitled to the possession of a firearm, possesses the firearm, knowing it to have been stolen or converted. The trier of fact may infer that a person who possesses a firearm with knowledge that its serial number has been removed or altered has knowledge that the firearm is stolen or converted.
Possession of a Stolen Firearm in Illinois is a Class 2 felony, meaning that a person who is convicted faces a prison sentence of 2-5 years and a fine of up to $25,000.
As a conviction for Possession of a Stolen Firearm is itself a felony, a person who is convicted will be barred from possessing firearms in the future.
Anyone who is accused of Possession of a Stolen Firearm in Illinois is wise to exercise their right to remain silent, and seek an attorney at once, as it is important to handle the case properly.