Justice Department allows rifle and shotgun possession without felony charges in D.C

In a significant shift in policy, federal prosecutors in Washington, D.C., have been directed not to pursue felony charges against individuals found carrying rifles or shotguns. This change is a result of new guidelines from the U.S. Justice Department and the Office of the Solicitor General, as declared by D.C. Attorney Jeanine Pirro. The policy reflects recent Supreme Court rulings that have expanded gun rights, specifically highlighting the constitutional right to carry firearms in public for self-defense. The U.S. Attorney's Office in D.C. emphasized that while charges for general possession of rifles and shotguns will not be pursued, exceptions remain for felons and those using firearms in violent crimes. Local prosecutors may still address illegal possession of unregistered firearms under existing D.C. law. This policy change has surfaced amid a broader initiative by President Donald Trump, who aims to reduce firearm regulations in the capital. Following the implementation of this policy, the White House has reported a considerable increase in federal presence in D.C., including National Guard troops to deal with violent crime. Notably, since the federal intervention began, law enforcement has seized 76 firearms. The shift has drawn mixed reactions, with Pirro advocating for strict enforcement against illegal firearms while arguing that previous blanket bans on rifles and shotguns violate the Supreme Court's decisions. The policy aims to navigate the delicate balance between promoting lawful gun ownership and addressing crime rates in the city.