California Gun Laws and Ja Morant’s Suspension: A Closer Look
In a recent incident captured on Instagram Live, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant, aged 23, was seen waving what appeared to be a gun from the driver’s seat of a slowly moving vehicle. This is not the first time Morant has been involved in such a situation, as he previously faced suspension for a similar incident. As the NBA gathers more information regarding the recent incident, it is crucial to examine the penalties for gun possession in California.
According to reports, the Instagram Live video allegedly captured Morant waving a gun while driving. The NBA is currently in the process of gathering more information, and a suspension for Morant seems likely, given his previous suspension for a comparable situation. In the previous incident, Morant went live on Instagram from a Colorado strip club and displayed a gun, which was later determined to belong to someone else.
Previous Suspension and Counseling: In response to the Colorado incident, Morant received an eight-game suspension without pay. The NBA investigated and concluded that Morant did not possess the gun while traveling with the team. He met with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to discuss his conduct, which was deemed detrimental to the league. Morant spoke to reporters about undergoing counseling in Florida during his time away from the team and expressed the need to be more responsible.
Allegations and Legal Issues: The Colorado incident occurred shortly after allegations surfaced that Morant had assaulted a teenager and threatened him with a gun during a pickup game at his house the previous summer. Additionally, he was accused of threatening the head of security at a Memphis mall in a separate incident. The Washington Post published a timeline of alleged events, suggesting that the Memphis police mishandled reports involving Morant and his family.
Now, let’s shift our focus to the penalties for gun possession in California. The state of California has strict gun laws in place, and unlawful possession of a firearm can lead to severe consequences. The penalties vary depending on factors such as the type of firearm, prior convictions, and the specific circumstances of the case.
Under California law, the illegal possession of a firearm is generally a felony offense. The penalties can include imprisonment, fines, and probation. Possessing a loaded firearm in public without a concealed carry license is prohibited, and violating this law can result in additional penalties.
Ja Morant’s recent suspension due to an Instagram Live video showing him waving a gun raises concerns about responsible behavior, both on and off the court. While the specific penalties for his actions are yet to be determined, it is essential to remember that gun possession laws in California are strict. Understanding these laws and their potential consequences is crucial for promoting safety and responsible gun ownership.
At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, our team of expert criminal defense lawyers is dedicated to fighting aggressively for our clients’ rights. To schedule a consultation with a lawyer at our firm, call us at (310) 448-1529 or contact us online. Located in Westside Towers in LA, our office is minutes from Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and offer weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail for consultation on your case.
