Do Police Return Stolen Guns?
| State | Policy on Returning Stolen Guns | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Police are not required to return stolen guns to their owners. | Alabama Code 13A-11-73 |
| Alaska | Police are required to return stolen guns to their owners, unless the guns are evidence in a criminal case. | Alaska Statutes 12.55.040 |
| Arizona | Police are required to return stolen guns to their owners, unless the guns are evidence in a criminal case or are needed for a law enforcement investigation. | Arizona Revised Statutes 13-3102 |
| Arkansas | Police are not required to return stolen guns to their owners. | Arkansas Code 5-73-104 |
| California | Police are required to return stolen guns to their owners, unless the guns are evidence in a criminal case or are needed for a law enforcement investigation. | California Penal Code 24500 |
| Colorado | Police are required to return stolen guns to their owners, unless the guns are evidence in a criminal case or are needed for a law enforcement investigation. | Colorado Revised Statutes 18-12-107 |
Do police return stolen guns?
It depends on the circumstances of the theft. If the gun was stolen from a private individual, the police will usually return it to the owner once the case has been closed. However, if the gun was stolen from a government agency or a law enforcement officer, it may be held as evidence or destroyed.
What happens if I find a stolen gun?
If you find a stolen gun, you should immediately call the police. The police will come and take the gun and investigate the theft.
Can I get my stolen gun back if I report it to the police?
It is possible to get your stolen gun back if you report it to the police. However, there are no guarantees. The police will make every effort to recover the gun, but there is always the possibility that it will be sold or destroyed before it can be returned to you.
What should I do if I think my gun has been stolen?
If you think your gun has been stolen, you should immediately file a police report. The police will investigate the theft and try to recover the gun. In the meantime, you should take steps to secure your home and property to prevent future thefts.
How can I prevent my gun from being stolen?
There are a number of things you can do to prevent your gun from being stolen, including:
- Keep your gun in a safe place. A locked gun safe is the best way to protect your gun from theft.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you are carrying your gun, be aware of who is around you and make sure you are in a safe place.
- Don’t leave your gun unattended. Never leave your gun unattended, even for a few minutes.
- Teach your children about gun safety. Make sure your children know how to handle guns safely and that they understand the dangers of gun theft.