Kansas City Man Charged with Illegal Firearm Possession

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Felon Indicted for Firearm Possession in Kansas City

Kansas City, Mo. –

Tracy Parker, 37, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The indictment alleges that Parker, who has multiple prior felony convictions, illegally possessed a firearm on Oct. 23, 2024. This charge is linked to his arrest in Jackson County on Oct.13, 2024.

During his apprehension, Parker reportedly dropped a 9mm handgun, wich was subsequently recovered by law enforcement officers.

It is important to note that the charges in this indictment are mere accusations. Evidence supporting these charges will need to be presented to a federal trial jury,whose role is to determine guilt or innocence.

the case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kirkpatrick. The investigation involved the Kansas City Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Operation Take back America

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a comprehensive national effort by the Department of Justice. Its aim is to address illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent criminals.

Operation Take Back America consolidates resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe neighborhood (PSN).

What are the key differences between federal and Missouri state laws regarding firearm possession for individuals with prior felony convictions?

Understanding the Charges: Federal & Missouri Firearm Laws

A Kansas City man is facing charges related to illegal firearm possession, sparking renewed discussion around gun control and related legislation in Missouri and at the federal level. These cases often involve complex legal frameworks, and understanding the specifics is crucial. This article breaks down the potential charges, penalties, and relevant legal considerations.

What Constitutes Illegal Firearm Possession?

Illegal firearm possession isn’t a single offense. It encompasses a range of violations,including:

Felon in Possession: Individuals convicted of a felony are generally prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)). Missouri state law mirrors this restriction.

Unlawful Possession by a Domestic Violence Restraining Order Recipient: Federal law prohibits anyone subject to a domestic violence restraining order from possessing a firearm.

Straw Purchasing: Buying a firearm for someone prohibited from owning one is a serious federal offense.

Possession of Prohibited Weapons: Certain firearms, like automatic weapons or short-barreled rifles, are heavily regulated or outright prohibited.

Lack of Proper Permits/Registration: While missouri generally has less restrictive gun laws than some states, certain firearms (like suppressors) require federal registration and permits.

Recent Kansas City Case Details (as of July 18, 2025)

Details surrounding the recent Kansas City case are still developing. Initial reports indicate the man was arrested following a traffic stop where a firearm was discovered. The specific charges will depend on the individual’s criminal history, the type of firearm, and the circumstances of the possession.

Reported Firearm Type: Preliminary reports suggest the firearm was a handgun.

prior Criminal Record: Investigations are underway to determine if the suspect has any prior felony convictions or outstanding warrants.

Location of Arrest: The arrest occurred in the northeast section of Kansas City, an area with a higher incidence of gun violence.

Potential Penalties for Illegal Firearm Possession

The penalties for illegal firearm possession vary significantly based on the specific charge and the defendant’s criminal history.

Federal Penalties

Federal penalties can be severe:

1. Felon in Possession: Up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
2. Straw Purchasing: Up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
3. Possession of Prohibited Weapons: Penalties vary depending on the specific weapon, but can include significant prison sentences and fines.

Missouri State Penalties

Missouri penalties also vary:

Illegal Possession of a Firearm (Class E Felony): Up to four years in prison.

Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Class C Felony): Up to seven years in prison.

Legal Defenses in Firearm Possession Cases

Defendants facing illegal firearm possession charges have several potential defenses:

Lack of Knowledge: The defendant was unaware the firearm was in their possession.

Illegal Search and Seizure: Evidence was obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment.

Mistaken Identity: The defendant was not the person who possessed the firearm.

Restoration of Rights: In some cases, a felon may have had their firearm rights restored.

Self-Defense: While not a complete defense to possession, it can be a mitigating factor.

The Impact of Missouri’s Gun Laws

Missouri is a “Second amendment sanctuary” state, meaning it has relatively permissive gun laws. This includes:

Constitutional Carry: Missouri allows individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit.

No State Registration: There is no state-level firearm registry.

Castle Doctrine: Missouri has a strong “castle doctrine” law, allowing individuals to use deadly force to defend themselves in their homes.

These laws, while favored by gun rights advocates, are often cited by those advocating for stricter gun control as contributing to higher rates of gun violence.

Resources for Legal Assistance & Information

Federal Public Defender: https://www.fd.org/

Missouri State Public defender: https://www.mopublicdefender.com/

National Rifle Association (NRA): https://home.nra.org/

Giffords Law Center: https://giffords.org/

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): https://www.atf.gov/

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