New Florida law toughens consequences for teens caught with guns

VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA – Among the laws going into effect this week is one that toughens penalties for children and teens caught with guns. It’s a law sheriffs across the state have been pushing for.

In Volusia County, teens involved in gun crimes are a trend Sheriff Mike Chitwood and his team have been watching. So far this year, they told News 6, 20 juveniles have been placed on probation for gun crimes in Volusia.

“We’re seeing a proliferation of juveniles involved in drive-by shootings, armed burglaries, armed robberies, it’s just getting out of hand,” Chitwood said.

The sheriff said that now, if you are caught in possession of a weapon or using a weapon in the commission of a crime, the consequences are much more serious.

“Now these sanctions will almost reflect what an adult has done,” he said.

The change to the law increases the penalty for a minor possessing a firearm to a third-degree felony, whereas it was previously a misdemeanor.

Additionally, if this is the first or second offense, the minor will have to spend up to 21 days in a secure detention center. If he commits a third offense, he will be declared a delinquent and placed in a residential program.

It also puts more pressure on judges to make it happen.

“Judges must explain their decision if they choose not to try a juvenile with a firearm, which is tantamount to not finding them guilty, which can only be done once,” Chitwood said.

The sheriff cited as a recent example a 16-year-old who pulled out a gun on New Smyrna Beach during spring break while trying to sell weed.

“There is an example of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. The penalties will be more severe. You can stay there for at least 21 days and every 21 days we can continue to ask you to stay there longer,” the sheriff said.

Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: