Mississippi law increases penalties for youth firearm crimes, moves some cases to adult court
FORREST COUNTY — Mississippi will send some minors accused of firearm-related crimes to adult circuit court instead of youth court under a new law that also boosts penalties for stolen-gun offenses. Senate Bill 2710 takes effect July 1, according to state officials.
The legislation increases penalties for possessing, selling, or transferring stolen firearms, especially if those guns are later used in violent crimes. It also moves cases involving violent crimes, trafficking stolen guns, drive-by shootings, and illegal firearm possession tied to felonies from youth court to circuit court.
Sen. Joey Fillingane, R-Sumrall, said the bill was developed after law enforcement and local leaders expressed concerns about youth violence involving firearms. He said the law aims to reduce youth violence and hold offenders more accountable.
Mississippi reports one of the highest firearm death rates in the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded about 810 firearm-related deaths in the state in 2024, with a rate of approximately 29.4 deaths per 100,000 residents.
The bill also enhances penalties for crimes involving stolen guns, including up to 40 years in prison if a stolen firearm is used in murder or attempted murder. Penalties for shooting into a group range from five to 15 years and fines up to $10,000. Cases involving minors, schools, parks, and gangs can carry sentences up to 30 years and fines of $20,000.
Local retailer Matt Pelham of The Lead Dispensary in Hattiesburg noted a recent attempted robbery by teenagers but emphasized security measures. Pelham said many stolen firearms are taken from unsecured vehicles overnight, often used in crimes. He added that gangs sometimes use minors for theft because of lighter punishments.
Both Pelham and Fillingane expressed support for stricter gun laws to reduce violence. They also highlighted the importance of safe firearm storage and education to prevent accidents, especially among children.
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