PC 25850: Carrying a Loaded Firearm

Legal Definition: A person is guilty of carrying a loaded firearm when the person carries a loaded firearm on the person or in a vehicle while in any public place or on any public street in an incorporated city or in any public place or on any public street in a prohibited area of an unincorporated territory. (PC 25850(a)).

In order to determine whether or not a firearm is loaded for the purpose of enforcing this section, peace officers are authorized to examine any firearm carried by anyone on a person or in a vehicle while in any public place or on any public street in an incorporated city or prohibited area of an unincorporated territory. Refusal to allow a peace officer to inspect a firearm constitutes probable cause for arrest for violation of this section. (PC 25850(b)).

For a person to be convicted of a violation of PC25850, the prosecution must prove the following:

1. You carried a loaded firearm on your person/in a vehicle;

2. You knew that you were carrying a firearm;

AND

3. At that time, you were in a public place or on a public street in an incorporated city/in an unincorporated area where it was unlawful to discharge a firearm.

What does this mean?

A firearm is any device designed to be used as a weapon, from which a projectile is expelled or discharged through a barrel by the force of any explosion or other form of combustion. A firearm also includes any rocket, rocket-propelled projectile launcher, or similar device containing any explosive or incendiary material, whether or not the device is designed for emergency or distress signaling purposes. As used here, a firearm is loaded if there is an unexpended cartridge or shell in the firing chamber or in either a magazine or clip attached to the firearm.

An unexpended cartridge or shell consists of a case that holds a charge of powder and a bullet or shot. A firearm does not need to be in working order if it was designed to shoot and appears capable of shooting. In other words, a firearm is loaded when a shell or cartridge has been placed into a position from which it can be fired; the shotgun is not ‘loaded’ if the shell or cartridge is stored elsewhere and not yet placed in a firing position. So, for example, if you have a firearm in the glove box of your car, and the cartridges are in the trunk, then that would not be considered loaded. A taser, if properly loaded, can also be considered a loaded firearm.

Penalties

A violation under PC 25850 will depend on what subsection your case or charge falls under.

1. PC 25850(a): This is the most common, and is charged only as a misdemeanor offense. If convicted, you could be sentenced to up to one year in County Jail. You would be required to serve 50% of that time in custody. 

2. PC 25850(a)/PC 25850(c)(1): These sections only change the above if the person possessing the firearm is a convicted felon. Carrying a loaded firearm by a convicted felon makes the charge a felony, punishable for upwards of 16 months, 2 or 3 years in a State Prison. You would be required to serve 50% of that time in custody. 

3. PC 25850(a)/PC 25850(c)(2): These sections only change the above if the person is possessing a stolen firearm. Carrying a loaded stolen firearm makes the charge a felony, punishable for upwards of 16 months, 2 or 3 years in a State Prison. You would be required to serve 50% of that time in custody.

4.  PC 25850(a)/PC 25850(c)(6): These sections involve a non-registered person possession of the loaded firearm. Carrying a loaded firearm by a non-registered person makes the charge a wobbler offense, meaning you can be charged with this section as a misdemeanor or as a felony charge. If you are charged with this as a misdemeanor, you could face up to one year in County Jail. If you are charged with this section as a felony, you could be punished upwards of 16 months, 2 or 3 years in a State Prison. You would be required to serve 50% of that time in custody.

This is not a strike under the Three Strike’s Law. It is also not a crime of moral turpitude, but people in the United States on a temporary basis, or people with a professional license, can be looked down upon for a conviction under this section. Sometimes, possessing a firearm can be deportable for Immigration purposes, regardless of whatever your sentence is, whenever you are forced to attend Immigration Court after the fact.

Common Defenses

1. Statute of Limitations
2. Insufficient Evidence
3. Self-Defense
4. Coerced Confessions

If a person or acquaintance you know gives you a firearm to hold onto and tells you that it is not loaded, you cannot be found guilty for being found with the loaded firearm lately. You would have to, of course, show that you lacked knowledge that the firearm was actually loaded at the time. This can be shown through ignorance of firearms, or how the firearm was even given to you. For example, if the firearm is concealed, and it is never taken out, it would be hard to show that you knew it was a loaded firearm, outside of being told of such. If there is no knowledge that the firearm is loaded, then there would be insufficient evidence to find you guilty of the crime.

Call Today

A criminal conviction, particularly for firearms charges under statutes like PC 25850, can drastically alter your life and future prospects. This is especially true if you’re navigating the complex landscape of U.S. immigration, where such a conviction could hinder your path to permanent residency or other immigration goals.

At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we understand the gravity of your situation. Our PC 25850 Ontario attorney specializes in defending against firearm charges and is well-versed in the unique challenges and implications these cases can have, especially for those seeking immigration help. With a successful track record in handling numerous cases, we bring extensive knowledge and experience to your defense.

We believe everyone deserves a robust defense and a chance to protect their future. That’s why we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case, answer any questions, and outline a defense strategy tailored to your needs. Our commitment extends beyond office hours, ensuring that we are available 24/7 to provide the support and guidance you require.

If you or a loved one is facing charges under PC 25850 and are concerned about the potential impact on your immigration status or future, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional legal assistance. Contact Inland Empire Criminal Defense today at 909-939-7126. Located in Ontario, CA, we are dedicated to helping you navigate through these challenging times with expert legal representation and support.