Although it doesn’t happen often, the Columbia Police Department has the ability to temporarily close streets or neighborhoods within the city. It might seem like an inconvenience at first, but most of the time it is to protect the safety of both law enforcement and citizens alike.
When Columbia police arrived at Larch Court to serve warrants to one 28-year-old suspect, they were not expecting to have to make such a call. This man had multiple warrants, including domestic assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and parole violation. The suspect, instead of coming quietly, barricaded his doors and refused to leave his home.
According to a report from KOMU, this caused the Crisis Negotiations Team and the SWAT team to be called to his residence. Columbia Police Department also advised everyone to stay away from the area for their safety. The standoff lasted a total of six hours, but eventually, the suspect backed down around 4:30 p.m. on that Monday and complied with police.
Firearm-related crimes are not to be trifled with. These charges, because of their inherently violent nature, are considered high-profile. If you’ve been accused of any gun-related crimes, you should reach out to a gun lawyer in Columbia right away.
Gun-Related Crimes are Serious
In any criminal case, the severity of the charges is entirely dependent upon the circumstances of the crimes, and the same can be said for what punishment you’ll face. Most gun-related crimes, whether you were unlawfully possessing a firearm or unlawfully using a firearm, will be a minimum Class D Felony. This can carry up to seven years in prison, on top of possible fines, restitution, and probation.
Felonies are serious beyond the possible jailtime and fines: they can ruin your reputation. If you’re applying to a new job or trying to enroll in a new school, your felony charge is likely to appear on any background checks they pull. Plus, being a convicted felon can severely impact your civil rights. You may lose access to public assistance and benefits, lose your right to vote, and lose your right to own firearms ever again.
Due to the seriousness of these charges, a criminal defense attorney is integral in facing gun-related charges. A lawyer can help you with the legal proceedings and build your defense so that you can strive for a good outcome.
Call the Law Office of Chris Miller for Your Gun-Related Issues
If you or a loved one have recently had a run-in with law enforcement and are now up against criminal charges, you don’t have to face this alone. Give us a call at the Law Office of Chris Miller. We’ve helped others fight back against their charges and reach a desirable outcome, and we can help you to. Contact us today for a free consult!