Pennsylvania State Police Announce Quarterly Firearms Purchase Denial Investigations

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 7, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) announced today the number of firearms purchase denials, subsequent investigations, and arrests as a result of such investigations for the first quarter of 2017.

The Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS) is used by county sheriffs, chiefs of police of cities of the first class, and licensed firearms dealers in Pennsylvania to determine an individual's legal ability to acquire a license to carry firearms or obtain a firearm through a purchase or transfer.

If an individual attempts to provide false information on a state and/or federal form, an investigation is initiated and an investigation referral is sent to the corresponding law enforcement agency. According to Pennsylvania law, a person commits a felony of the third degree if they make a false oral or written statement on any federal or state agency form or willfully presents false identification that is likely to deceive the seller, licensed dealer, or licensed manufacturer.

During the PICS process, some individuals are identified as having an active warrant for their arrest as well.

In the first quarter of 2017, the following investigations were initiated by the PSP Firearms Division and referred to PSP troops, municipal police departments, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for further investigation and possible prosecution. Figures for the first quarter of 2016 are also included for reference.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Cpl. Adam Reed, 717-783-5556

SOURCE Pennsylvania State Police Department

Related Links

http://www.state.pa.us