Deep Blue State files lawsuits against 3 gun dealers over new gun control law
New Jersey Takes Legal Action Against Firearms Dealers Under Public Nuisance Law
New Jersey is cracking down on three firearms dealers using a public nuisance law that was passed last year. This law allows the government to file civil suits against gun shops, and the state is wasting no time in utilizing this power.
One of the lawsuits alleges that a business that was burglarized had illegally stored guns in a way that made them visible from outside. The other lawsuits claim that the dealers were selling “ghost guns” that had been brought into New Jersey.
These lawsuits are based on a law passed in 2022 that expanded the government’s authority to pursue gun dealers civilly and seek monetary damages. The suits are seeking an injunction against the companies, as well as unspecified monetary and punitive damages.
“We’re going to hold these folks accountable, but they won’t be the last,” said state Attorney General Matt Platkin. “If you’re violating our laws, we’re going to come for you. We’re going to hold you accountable, too.”
The three firearms dealers being targeted by the lawsuits are FSS Armory, Eagle Shows, and JSD Supply. According to state law, firearms must be secured and not visible from outside.
The lawsuit against FSS Armory accuses the store owner of ”reckless” and ”substandard storage and security practices.” The store was burglarized in January, and several weapons were stolen. Some of the stolen guns have not been recovered, and some were found as far away as New York City.
The lawsuits against Eagle Shows and JSD Supply claim that these Pennsylvania-based companies sold “ghost guns” without serial numbers to residents of New Jersey. State police have already made arrests of New Jersey residents who obtained illegal products from Eagle Shows.
While the ghost gun claim is being disputed, with some arguing that the companies are not violating any laws, these lawsuits mark the first attempt by the state to enforce the law passed in July 2022 that allows for civil court enforcement of state gun laws.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation, which previously sought to block the law from being enforced, has stated that it will sue again to prevent enforcement when the state takes action.
Source: Deep Blue State Sues 3 Firearms Dealers for Public Nuisance in Test of New Gun Grab Law
Original Source: The Western Journal
What specific actions do the lawsuits filed under this law accuse firearms dealers of, and how do these actions contribute to gun violence and public safety risks?
State hopes that by holding firearms dealers accountable for their actions, it can help reduce gun violence and improve public safety.
Under the public nuisance law, the government can bring civil suits against gun shops that engage in activities that contribute to gun violence or pose a threat to public safety. This law provides the state with a powerful tool to address the problem of illegal gun sales and the proliferation of firearms in the wrong hands.
One of the lawsuits filed under this law alleges that a firearms dealer had unlawfully stored guns in a manner that made them visible from outside. This negligent storage not only puts the firearms at risk of theft but also increases the likelihood of them being sold illegally. By holding the dealer accountable for this irresponsible practice, the state sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated.
The other lawsuits claim that the dealers were selling “ghost guns” that had been brought into New Jersey. Ghost guns refer to firearms that do not have serial numbers or other identifying marks, making them untraceable by law enforcement. These guns are often favored by criminals because they can be obtained without background checks and without the need for a license. By targeting dealers who engage in the sale of ghost guns, the state aims to disrupt the illegal firearms market and prevent these weapons from falling into the wrong hands.
The passage of this law in 2022 reflects New Jersey’s commitment to addressing the root causes of gun violence and improving public safety. By allowing the government to pursue civil action against firearms dealers, the state recognizes that preventing gun violence requires a multi-faceted approach that includes holding those who contribute to it accountable.
Critics argue that this law infringes on the rights of firearms dealers and could potentially lead to the closure of legitimate businesses. They argue that existing federal regulations are sufficient to regulate the sale of firearms and that the state’s pursuit of civil action is unnecessary. However, supporters of the law maintain that the current federal regulations have proven to be insufficient in addressing the problem of illegal gun sales and that additional measures are necessary.
New Jersey’s decision to utilize the public nuisance law to take legal action against firearms dealers sends a strong message that the state is committed to tackling the issue of gun violence. By holding dealers accountable for their actions and seeking monetary damages, the state hopes to deter illegal gun sales and improve public safety. This proactive approach reflects a recognition that gun violence is a serious problem that demands comprehensive and effective solutions. Only time will tell if this strategy proves to be successful in reducing gun violence and making communities safer.
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