As most people in Illinois will agree, the sight of a person with a gun can be an alarming one. This is even more the case for police officers whose lives are put on the line every day. Often, a split second decision is required, so if you are seen to be brandishing a firearm, even if it turns out to be a replica, you could face serious criminal charges.
Airsoft guns can often become involved in this sort of confusion. As they can look extremely realistic, it is not always easy to tell whether the gun someone is holding is an Airsoft weapon or not. As such, it is important to take care when and where you use such a gun and be mindful of legal restrictions which may vary from state to state.
For example, as this article on gun crime explains, some states have outlawed Airsoft guns altogether. In others, if one of these guns is used in the commission of a crime, some states will treat the incident as if a real firearm was used. Unfortunately, if you are not aware of these restrictions, an innocent prank could turn into a prolonged criminal investigation and the possibility of hefty penalties and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
If you are facing charges relating to a weapon crime, it is time to start thinking about your defense. An attorney may be able to advise you about what to say and how to present your case to the court. It may seem like a daunting process, but with the right guidance, you can work toward securing a lighter sentence or even escaping conviction altogether.