Mississippi enacts stricter penalties for juvenile firearm crimes starting July 1

Mississippi will implement stricter penalties for juvenile firearm-related crimes starting July 1, following the passage of Senate Bill 2710. The law, signed by Governor Tate Reeves, allows prosecutors to charge minors under 18 as adults if they commit violent crimes with firearms.

DeSoto County Sheriff Thomas Tuggle announced the changes on social media this week, emphasizing the law’s focus on accountability. Tuggle said the law shifts away from treating armed violence as youthful misconduct and warns that teenagers who commit violent crimes with guns could face adult sentences.

The legislation also increases penalties for transferring or selling stolen firearms. Under the law, selling a stolen firearm to a minor is punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison, while selling a firearm used in a violent crime carries sentences of 10 to 30 years. If the firearm is used in attempted murder, murder, or child homicide, the sentence can reach up to 40 years.

The bill passed the Mississippi Senate 35-17 and the House 79-39, with only Democratic lawmakers opposing it. Sheriff Tuggle urged parents to educate their children about the consequences of firearm offenses and emphasized the importance of early conversations about accountability and responsibility.

He warned that a single decision involving a firearm could have lifelong repercussions. Tuggle also told lawbreakers that criminal behavior in his county will be met with consequences, regardless of age or affiliation.

Source: Original Article