New gun laws protect innocent Queenslanders: Jack Dempsey
NEW gun laws targeting illegal weapons will deliver mandatory sentencing of between 18 months and five years for those trafficking or owning firearms unlawfully.
The Weapons and Other Legislation Amendment Bill passed through the Parliament on Monday night.
Police Minister Jack Dempsey said previous laws were too weak for those using guns to break the law.
"These changes protect innocent Queenslanders and send a clear message that trafficking, supply, unlawful possession and use of illegal firearms will not be tolerated," Mr Dempsey said.
The new legislation will be in place from February 1, 2013 but will include a three-month amnesty period.
This allows for gun owners to register or surrender their weapons without fear of the new penalties.
Here is what some criminals will now face if they are involved with illegal weapons:
- If convicted of trafficking illegal guns, mandatory minimum five year sentence.
- If convicted of supplying illegal guns, mandatory minimum three years in custody.
- If convicted of possessing an illegal firearm that is used in the commission of an indictable offence, mandatory minimum term of 18 months in custody.
- If convicted of possessing an illegal firearm for the purpose of committing or planning a crime, mandatory minimum term of one year in custody.
- If convicted of possessing an illegal firearm in a public place, mandatory minimum term of one year in custody.
