English
EspañolIf the abuser has been convicted of a crime, can s/he keep or buy a gun?
In Puerto Rico, anyone who wants to have or buy a gun must have a weapons license. An abuser cannot get a weapons license, or an existing one can be revoked, if s/he has been convicted of, or has charges pending, for:
- a felony or attempted felony;
- a violent misdemeanor;
- a domestic violence-related offense;
- stalking;
- abusing a minor; or
- violating gun laws.1
Also, federal laws, which apply to Puerto Rico, may restrict an abuser’s right to have a gun. Go to Federal Gun Laws to get more information.
1 25 L.P.R.A. §§ 462h
How can I find out if the abuser has been convicted of a crime?
Misdemeanor and felony records are open to the public, but they are not always easy to access. If you know the exact courthouse where the abuser may have been convicted, you can go to the courthouse and ask the clerk of court for access to those records.
Domestic violence misdemeanor and felony records are also kept in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). However, no one other than law enforcement officials and licensed firearm sellers are allowed to search the NICS. Your local police department may be willing to search NICS for you if you ask, but they are not required to do so
To read more about the NICS, please see What will happen if the abuser tries to purchase a gun?
