Plans of Action to Remove a Gun
If you think your abuser may unlawfully possess a gun, this section may help you develop a plan of action for gun removal.
(1) If you want to have the gun removed from the home, here are some things to consider:
Gun removal may anger your abuser and put your safety at risk, so consider these general safety tips and perhaps use them to develop a safety plan that is right for you.
If you have experienced an assault OR feel unsafe in your home, you can call 911 and ask for a police officer to remove the gun.
The officer may be able to remove the gun and put it into protective custody, whether or not the abuser is present at the time.
Unless the abuser is convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, the gun removal will be only temporary, and the abuser will be able to get the gun back.
If you feel that this will create a dangerous situation, it can be a good idea to plan for a safe place to go after the police remove the gun.
See “Safety Tips” for more information
Remember:
If you have a protective order against the abuser, he likely cannot lawfully possess a gun.
If the abuser is convicted of family violence, he likely cannot lawfully possess a gun.
—>Click here to learn more on legal requirements surrounding gun ownership
(2) If you believe it is too dangerous to have the gun removed, but you still want tips on how to increase your safety despite the presence of guns, you can:
Determine how many guns are in your home (or in your abuser’s possession);
Know where the gun(s) is located
Know what the gun(s) looks like. Click here for more info on identifying firearms
Know where the bullets are located and how many there are.
This information may help the police if you want the gun removed at a later date. The more you can tell the police about the gun, the more effectively they can protect you.
(3) The following people may be able to offer more information on firearms relinquishment for abusers:
Police Officer and 911
Judge
Prosecutor
Attorney
Family Violence Program Advocate