Straw Purchase Gun Charges in York County: A Simple Act with Serious Felony Consequences

In York County, buying a firearm on behalf of someone else—especially someone who’s prohibited—can get you charged with a third-degree felony under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6111. Even if you meant no harm, this charge is aggressively prosecuted.

Examples of a Straw Purchase:

  • Buying a gun for a friend or relative
  • Filling out the paperwork but planning to hand it off
  • Purchasing for someone with a record or PFA

Penalties Include:

  • Up to 7 years in prison 
  • $15,000 in fines 
  • Potential federal charges from the ATF
  • Permanent loss of gun rights

How It Happens in York:
 These cases often come from routine ATF audits or crime gun tracing in York City, Red Lion, or Hanover. You may be approached by agents or law enforcement weeks or months after the sale.

What We Do
 We build a defense around your lack of intent, confusion during paperwork, or pressure from another party. Many people don’t even realize what they’ve done is illegal.

Call us before speaking to police or ATF—The McShane Firm is here to help.

Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:

  • Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
  • Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
  • Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
  • Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
  • Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.

This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.

PA DUI attorney Justin J. McShane is the President/CEO of The McShane Firm, LLC - Pennsylvania's top criminal law and DUI law firm. He is the highest rated DUI attorney in PA as rated by Avvo.com. Justin McShane is a double Board certified attorney. He is the first and so far the only Pennsylvania attorney to achieve American Bar Association recognized board certification in DUI defense from the National College for DUI Defense, Inc. He is also a Board Certified Criminal Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a Pennsylvania Supreme Court Approved Agency.