Chicago Reckless Discharge of a Weapon Attorneys
Illinois Firearm Overview
What Is Considered Reckless Discharge Of A Firearm?
In Illinois, a person commits reckless discharge of a firearm when they discharge a firearm in a reckless manner that endangers the bodily safety of another individual.
The offense is outlined in 720 ILCS 5/24-1.5.
Property damage may be evidence of reckless conduct or may support a separate charge, but property damage alone is not enough to establish reckless discharge of a firearm.
Circumstances Surrounding Reckless Discharge of a Firearm
Whether conduct amounts to reckless discharge depends on the circumstances surrounding the shooting and whether another person’s bodily safety was endangered.
Examples of conduct that may lead to a reckless discharge charge can include:
- Firing a gun in a crowded area
- Shooting a firearm from a vehicle
- Firing a gun in a manner that places another person at risk of bodily harm
The prosecution must establish more than unsafe gun handling in the abstract or a risk of property damage alone. Factors such as the presence of other people, the direction of fire, the location, distance, and surrounding circumstances may all be relevant.
Charge Classification
Reckless discharge of a firearm is a Class 4 felony in Illinois.
Get In Touch
If you’re facing Reckless Discharge of a Firearm charges in Illinois, contact the experienced criminal defense team at Abdallah Law for more information. 312-300-2028