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A later search of the vehicle turned up two rifles and two loaded pistols, most or all with paraphernalia including silencers, optical sites and laser pointers attached. One of the pistols, a .22-caliber, was under the driver's seat, while the other was under the passenger's seat.
What specifically is unlawful use of a firearm that applies if you don't brandish it, fire it, or otherwise do anything else with it other than possess it, despite having a license for them so that doesn't apply? I am lost.
What is Unlawful Use of Weapons?
Section 24-1 of the Criminal Code of 1961:
"(a) a person commits the offense of unlawful use of weapons when he knowingly:
*** Carries or possesses in any vehicle or concealed on or about his person except when on his land or in his abode or fixed place of business any pistol, revolver, stun gun, taser or other firearm." 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(4)(West 1994).
Are there any exceptions?Yes!
[snip...]
So basically what is a civil infraction here is a crime in illinois (I assume you looked up their law here). Thanks. That was not clear by the name since no "use", at least in the active sense, occurred.
So because they are college students they have no rights?! I'm honestly sickened by this comment...Whether rightly or wrongly, I think the fact that these guys are students at WIU has a big effect in determining how far the police will investigate. We need no reminders that a few students have armed themselves and gone on violent and deadly rampages at schools they attend.
Best Regards.
It is generally a good idea to know what the law is prior to criticizing how the police enforce it.
Terraformer...that is not directed at you