Staff Reports
The state of New Jersey is actively pursuing legal action against three firearms dealers using a public nuisance law enacted last year. This legislation empowers the government to file civil suits against gun shops, and New Jersey is making full use of this authority.
One of the lawsuits alleges that a burglarized business unlawfully stored guns in a manner visible from the outside, creating an opportunity for theft. Additionally, the other lawsuits claim that these dealers were involved in selling and bringing "ghost guns" into the state.
Deep Blue State Sues 3 Firearms Dealers for Public Nuisance in Test of New Gun Grab Law
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These legal actions are grounded in a law that broadens the state government's ability to pursue civil cases against gun dealers, seeking injunctions, unspecified monetary damages, and punitive measures. State Attorney General Matt Platkin emphasized the state's commitment to holding violators accountable, issuing a warning to others in the industry.
The targeted dealers in these lawsuits are FSS Armory, Eagle Shows, and JSD Supply, accused of various violations, including illegal storage and the sale of ghost guns. Compliance with state law, which mandates that all firearms be securely stored and not visible from outside, is at the heart of these allegations.
The lawsuit against FSS Armory implicates owner Ross Osias in reckless storage practices, as the store fell victim to a burglary resulting in the theft of 20 weapons, some still unrecovered. The legal actions against Eagle Shows and JSD Supply allege the sale of ghost guns to New Jersey residents. However, the pro-Second Amendment community disputes these claims, arguing that these companies sell incomplete frames and receivers, not fully assembled firearms. Moreover, they question the dealers' responsibility for the actions of New Jersey residents if no laws are being violated.
These lawsuits mark the first significant test of the law enacted last year, and New Jersey appears determined to enforce it rigorously. While the National Shooting Sports Foundation vows to contest these actions in court, it's evident that New Jersey is taking a strong stance on gun control, signaling its intent to send a resolute message to the firearms industry: "Do not underestimate us." The unfolding legal proceedings will determine the trajectory of this conflict, but one thing remains certain – New Jersey is unwavering in its pursuit of stringent gun control measures.
