Here’s what Trump may have accidentally done.
Legal experts have raised concerns over former President Donald Trump’s recent admission during his first probation hearing following his conviction for falsifying business documents. Trump acknowledged on Monday that he still possessed a firearm, despite his license to carry firearms in New York being suspended due to charges related to a hush money case involving Stormy Daniels.
Following the charges, two of Trump’s firearms were handed over to the New York Police Department, while a third was reportedly moved to Florida. However, Trump’s statement during the hearing indicated that he retained possession of a firearm in Florida, which could potentially violate federal laws prohibiting felons from possessing guns.
Barbara McQuade, a former federal prosecutor, highlighted that individuals with felony convictions are barred from firearm possession under federal law. Failure to surrender firearms as required could lead to additional charges. Michael McAuliffe, another former federal prosecutor, emphasized that while Trump’s statement could serve as admission, further evidence of actual possession would be necessary for enforcement action.
Despite Trump’s assertion, reports from Palm Beach police indicate no awareness of firearms in his possession, and he has not surrendered any guns. Additionally, Florida’s lack of a firearms registry complicates tracking private firearms transfers.
Trump’s silence on whether he surrendered the firearm since the hearing contrasts with his previous acknowledgment of owning firearms, including a .45 caliber Heckler & Koch and a .38 caliber Smith & Wesson. Throughout his presidency, Trump positioned himself as a staunch advocate of gun rights, generally opposing gun control measures.