Criminal Possession of a Weapon in New York City – Unlawful Possession of a Weapon Upon School Grounds

NEW YORK PENAL LAW SECTION 265.06 – UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A WEAPON UPON SCHOOL GROUNDS

Under New York law, it is illegal for any person to knowingly possess an air-gun, spring-gun, or any CO2 propelled projectile (air guns or air rifles) in any building, or on any grounds used for educational purposes, of any school, college or university.

Actual knowledge that a person is on school grounds is not a part of this offense, mere presence is enough regardless of whether the person knows what type of property he or she is on or in.

Unlawful Possession of a Weapon Upon School Grounds is a violation, not a crime, but is punishable by up to 15 days in jail. This offense is equivalent to disorderly conduct in terms of severity of the charge. However, even a violation can seriously disrupt a person’s life: it may lead to discharge from employment, expulsion from school, or a civil judgment for fines and court fees that a person may not be able to pay.

Additionally, because this offense is specifically tied to being on property that the person does not own, it will frequently be accompanied by more serious charges like Burglary or Criminal Trespass, and possibly other weapons charges also, which have serious criminal implications.

At the Law Offices of Jeffrey Lichtman, the New York weapons and firearms attorneys are experienced in both weapons and property offenses. We will identify the best defenses for your case and help achieve the best possible outcome. If you have been charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon Upon School Grounds, contact us today at (212) 581-1001 for a free case evaluation and consultation.