L1.2 Flashcards
(69 cards)
What is the purpose of the lesson on firearms?
To look at offences created under the Firearms Act 1968 and Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015
The lesson is designed to inform about the offences likely to be encountered and the powers granted to deal with them.
What are the two parts of the lesson focused on?
Adults and young people
The lesson is split into two distinct parts to address the different considerations for adults and young individuals.
Why do the public report sightings of firearms?
They do not want to see anyone carrying a firearm in a public place
Such reports can have serious implications, necessitating thorough information gathering.
What is one of the main roles of a police officer?
To protect life and property
The health and safety of the public and the officer themselves is paramount.
What offence is committed by a person carrying a firearm in a public place?
Carrying a firearm in a public place is an offence
This is one of the key offences discussed in the lesson.
What powers do police officers have under the Firearms Act 1968?
Stop and search powers
These powers allow officers to conduct searches related to firearms.
What sections of the Firearms Act 1968 outline criminal use of firearms?
Sections 17 and 18
These sections detail the criminal use of firearms.
What is the offence regarding air weapons?
Failing to keep secure or report the loss of an Air Weapon
This is an important legal requirement under the relevant legislation.
What is the common law crime related to firearms?
Reckless discharge
This involves discharging a firearm in a manner that poses danger to others.
What is the statutory offence regarding air weapons?
Firing an air weapon beyond premises
This offence addresses the misuse of air weapons in public areas.
What controls exist for young people regarding Section 1 certificated weapons?
Regulations concerning possession and use
Specific legal controls are in place for young individuals regarding these weapons.
What is a key aspect of controls for Section 2 certificated weapons for young people?
Regulations concerning possession and use
These weapons are subject to specific legal considerations for minors.
What type of firearms are regulated under imitation firearms for young people?
Imitation Firearms
Controls are in place to prevent misuse by minors.
What kind of weapons are included under air weapons controls for young people?
Air Weapons
These are regulated to ensure safety and compliance.
What does Section 19 of the Act prohibit?
Having certain firearms in a public place without lawful authority or reasonable excuse
The specific firearms include loaded shotguns, air weapons, any other firearms (loaded or unloaded with suitable ammunition), and imitation firearms.
Define ‘loaded’ in the context of firearms.
Includes occasions when ammunition can be fed into the breech from the magazine
This definition clarifies when a firearm is considered loaded.
What is meant by ‘imitation firearm’?
Anything that appears to be a firearm, regardless of its capability to discharge
Excludes specific weapons mentioned in Section 5(1)(b) of the Act.
What constitutes a ‘public place’?
Any premises or place to which the public has access at the material time
Access can be with or without payment.
What determines a ‘reasonable excuse’ for carrying a firearm?
Circumstances involved dictate whether a person has reasonable excuse
For example, carrying a shotgun on a country road while moving from one part of a shoot to another may be considered reasonable.
What is an example of ‘lawful authority’?
Official police or military use
Mere possession of a certificate under the Act does not constitute lawful authority.
What does Section 20 of the Act create an offence for?
Possession of a firearm or imitation firearm while trespassing onto land or buildings
The burden of proof for reasonable excuse lies with the person trespassing.
True or False: A properly wrapped rifle and ammunition purchased from a dealer is considered a reasonable excuse for carrying.
True
Common sense applies in determining reasonable excuse in such situations.
What offences are covered under Section 20?
Offences committed elsewhere than a public place involving possession of firearms on private land or in buildings
This includes situations where firearms are found on land covered by water, such as rivers and lochs.
Is it necessary to prove that a firearm was loaded for Section 20 offences?
No, it is not necessary to prove that the firearm was loaded or that the person was in possession of ammunition.