Guns in the Airport

Guns in Airports: Understanding the Legal Risks and Consequences in Minnesota

Carrying a firearm into an airport is a serious matter under Minnesota law, even if the act is unintentional. Whether you’re a responsible gun owner or unaware of specific regulations, the consequences of bringing a firearm into a restricted area can be significant. If you’ve been charged with a firearm-related offense at an airport, experienced St. Paul criminal defense attorney Mark D. Kelly can guide you through the legal process and work to protect your rights.

What the Law Says About Firearms in Airports

Minnesota law prohibits carrying firearms into secure areas of airports, such as past the TSA security checkpoint, without proper authorization. Even if you possess a valid permit to carry a concealed weapon, the law requires strict adherence to transportation rules:

• Firearms must be unloaded.
• They must be locked in a hard-sided case.
• The firearm must be declared to the airline at check-in.

Failure to comply with these rules can result in criminal charges, which vary in severity based on the circumstances.

Common Missteps: Accidental Carrying

Accidental violations of airport firearm laws are more common than you might think. A firearm left in a carry-on bag, or simply forgotten, can lead to legal trouble even if there was no intent to break the law. Minnesota treats these situations seriously, and the penalties can be harsh. However, with the help of an experienced lawyer like Mark D. Kelly, you can navigate these charges effectively.

Potential Penalties for Airport Firearm Violations

The penalties for carrying a firearm in a restricted area depend on factors such as the nature of the violation, whether the firearm was loaded, and your prior criminal record. Possible consequences include:

• Misdemeanor Charges: A first-time offense may result in up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
• Gross Misdemeanor Charges: Aggravating factors, such as a loaded firearm or repeat violations, can lead to penalties of up to one year in jail and $3,000 in fines.
• Felony Charges: Cases involving intent to cause harm or other severe circumstances can result in years of prison time and significant fines.

In addition to these criminal penalties, a conviction may lead to the suspension or revocation of your firearm permit and long-term impacts on your criminal record.

Federal Implications: TSA Enforcement

Airport firearm violations can also trigger federal penalties enforced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Depending on the severity of the offense, fines can range from $1,500 to $14,950. Repeat violations and aggravating factors—such as carrying a loaded weapon—can result in steeper fines.

Building a Strong Defense

Being charged with carrying a firearm in an airport doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. Several defense strategies may be available based on the specifics of your case:

• Accidental Oversight: Demonstrating that you forgot the firearm was in your possession.
• Insufficient Notice: Highlighting inadequate signage or unclear warnings about firearm restrictions.
• Lack of Intent: Arguing that there was no intent to cause harm or violate the law.

Mark D. Kelly has successfully defended clients in similar situations, using a combination of legal expertise and a personalized approach to achieve favorable outcomes.

Get Experienced Legal Help

If you’re facing charges for carrying a firearm in an airport, you need a skilled attorney who understands Minnesota’s firearm laws and the complexities of airport-related cases. Mark D. Kelly offers compassionate and strategic representation to protect your rights and fight for the best possible resolution.

Don’t wait—contact the Law Office of Mark D. Kelly today to schedule a consultation.