Carrying Of Deadly Weapons

Legal Definition

A person commits unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon by carrying a concealed loaded firearm on or about their person in any vehicle or on any premises that are not their own or under their control, without a valid concealed carry license. The statute also prohibits carrying a switchblade knife, poniard, butcher knife, dagger, or other deadly weapon concealed on the person. New Mexico law generally permits open carry of firearms, but concealed carry without a license is prohibited.

Possible Punishment

Up to 6 months in county jail and a fine up to $500. The offense is typically charged as a petty misdemeanor absent aggravating circumstances or prior convictions.

Weapons Cases in Doña Ana County

New Mexico is a permissive state for lawful gun ownership, so most weapons bookings involve a status or conduct problem: a felon in possession, negligent use of a deadly weapon, or a firearm surfacing during another arrest. A prior felony conviction converts otherwise-legal possession into a new felony, and federal prosecution is possible for repeat offenders.

Weapons counts also work as enhancers. Brandishing during an argument can turn simple assault into aggravated assault, and a firearm in a drug case raises both the charges and the odds that prosecutors seek pretrial detention.

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