Michigan court rules brass knuckles ban is constitutional

In Michigan, the legal status of brass knuckles has been definitively established by the Michigan Court of Appeals. On Tuesday, a ruling was presented by the court that confirmed there is no constitutional right to possess brass knuckles in the state, aligning with historical precedents regarding dangerous weapons. This decision effectively upholds the existing law created in 1931, which classifies the possession of such weapons as a criminal act punishable with a five-year prison term. As the ruling was detailed within an 18-page opinion, the court made it clear that brass knuckles, also known as metallic knuckles, fit within a category of weapons historically deemed hazardous and have traditionally been prohibited due to their association with violent crime. Judge Christopher Murray emphasized that brass knuckles are frequently linked to gangs and violence in urban areas, situating them within a societal perception of danger. During arguments presented by the defense, an attorney representing a man from the Grand Rapids area attempted to challenge the ban by arguing that views around what constitutes a dangerous weapon have shifted over time. The lawyer remarked that brass knuckles could serve as effective self-defense tools, implying a need for reconsideration of their legal status. Despite this assertion, the court recognized the consistency of laws across the country, noting that nearly two dozen states have similar prohibitions, while an additional 17 states impose regulations on their possession. This reinforces a broader, national context where similar legislative measures have been adopted, further advocating for a uniform approach toward what many categorize as unusual weaponry. The ruling underscores a legal and social stance that still regards brass knuckles as an item largely associated with criminal activity, indicating a complex balance between individual rights and public safety that lawmakers and the courts continue to navigate.