A Move So Dumb, It Makes the New Mexico Governor Look Smart

Published on December 24, 2023
Duration: 6:31

This video from Washington Gun Law, presented by William Kirk, analyzes a controversial firearm collection event in New Mexico. The group 'New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence' collected firearms door-to-door without proper FFL paperwork, which is argued to be an illegal transfer under New Mexico law. The firearms were then presented at a local high school for an anti-gun art project, raising further legal and ethical concerns. The local sheriff is reportedly investigating the incident.

Quick Summary

In New Mexico, a group called 'New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence' allegedly conducted an illegal firearm transfer by collecting guns door-to-door without FFL paperwork. The firearms were then presented at a school, raising legal concerns. The method of destruction also failed to meet ATF standards for inoperability.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to New Mexico Issue
  2. 00:38Hypothetical Illegal Firearm Collection
  3. 01:36Farmington Gun Buyback Alternative
  4. 02:04Illegal Firearm Transfer Explained
  5. 02:18Unlawful Firearm Disposition
  6. 03:22Firearms Presented at School
  7. 03:39NMPGV Response & Law Concerns
  8. 04:55Summary and Sheriff Investigation

Frequently Asked Questions

What legal issues arose from the firearm collection event in New Mexico?

The primary legal issue is the alleged illegal transfer of firearms. Collecting guns door-to-door without FFL paperwork, even for a 'buyback' alternative, is considered a transfer under New Mexico law and requires proper compliance, which was reportedly not followed.

How did 'New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence' handle the collected firearms?

The group reportedly collected firearms from residences, then halved them with a bandsaw. These were subsequently taken to a local high school where students used them for anti-gun art projects. The method of destruction did not meet ATF standards for rendering firearms inoperable.

What is the ATF's standard for rendering firearms inoperable?

The ATF specifies methods like torch cuts at specific angles on critical components to ensure a firearm is permanently inoperable. Simply cutting a firearm in half with a bandsaw may not be sufficient to meet these federal standards for destruction.

Is collecting firearms door-to-door legal without an FFL?

Generally, no. Under New Mexico law, collecting a firearm from someone who is not a direct family member constitutes a transfer. This requires compliance with federal and state laws, including FFL requirements, to be legal.

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