What is the legal definition of a “dangerous individual”?
A dangerous individual is someone who presents:
- an “imminent risk” (immediate risk) of personal injury to himself/herself or another person; or
- a risk of personal injury to himself/herself or another person in the future and either:
- s/he has a mental illness that may be controlled by medication and has not shown a pattern of taking medication willingly and consistently while not under supervision; or
- there is a reasonable belief, supported by documented evidence, that s/he has a tendency for violent or suicidal behavior.1
If the judge finds probable cause exists to believe the individual is dangerous and in possession of a firearm, the judge may issue a search and seizure warrant for the individual’s firearms.2
1 Ind. Code § 35-47-14-1(a)
2 Ind. Code § 35-47-14-2(3)