Floridians are expected to follow all laws in the state, including those regarding carrying weapons. Contrary to popular belief, knives and guns aren’t the only weapons covered by state statutes. The rules are very specific, and you can face criminal charges for not abiding by them.
Title XLVI, Chapter 790 of the Florida Statutes has information about the various types of weapons and the applicable laws. Some of these include metallic “knuckles,” electric weapons, swords, clubs and dirks. In all instances, it’s illegal to brandish one of the above weapons. By definition, “brandishing” means to show it to at least one person in an angry, threatening, rude or careless manner.
Even though they are commonly known as “brass” knuckles, Florida notes that the composition of the knuckles doesn’t matter. It is illegal to manufacture, sell, purchase, brandish or conceal them here. This makes it difficult to carry them legally since it might be construed as brandishing if someone sees them. Also, hiding them makes them concealed. Individuals with licenses to carry concealed weapons can legally carry metallic knuckles as long as they aren’t otherwise breaking the law.
Another weapon covered in this statute are razor blades, including box cutters. It is illegal to have this type of weapon on school grounds, within 1,000 feet of school property or at any event sponsored by the school. The only exception to this is if a person is on their own property located within those parameters.
A weapons charge demands your immediate attention because of the harsh penalties for convictions. Evaluate your defense strategy options quickly so you have time to build your case.