Minneapolis, MN asked in Criminal Law and Animal / Dog Law for Minnesota

Q: Firearms related question relating to dogs in the state of MN.

Say I was walking my dog, and I do not have a carry permit, would it be possible to find me guilty of carrying/concealing a pistol if it's concealed on my dog and not my person.

3 Lawyer Answers
William Bailey
William Bailey
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: Yes. Look up constructive possession. They know your dog didn’t obtain the gun on its own.

1 user found this answer helpful

Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Saint Cloud, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: Yeah. The dog didn’t conceal the gun. That defense won’t get you anywhere.

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: Yes. If those facts were known, a prosecutor could claim constructive possession. There are limited circumstances where a carry permit is not required in Minnesota, such as in your own home, etc. - but that has nothing to do with the "possession via dog" angle.

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