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EspañolIf the abuser has been convicted of a crime, can they have or buy a gun?
Miss. Code § 97-37-5(1) says it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to possess a firearm. If you’d like more information, the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence has a page on Firearms Prohibitions in Mississippi.
In addition, federal laws, which apply to all states, may restrict an abuser’s right to have a gun. You can see more information on our Federal Gun Laws page.
How can I find out if the abuser has been convicted of a crime?
Some criminal records are open to the public, but they are not always easy to get. If you know the specific courthouse where the abuser was convicted, you can go there and ask the clerk of court about your options for access to those records. Some criminal records might also be available online.
Criminal records are also kept in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). However, only 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 don’t have to.
To read more about the NICS, please see the question What will happen if the abuser tries to purchase a gun?
