A straw purchase occurs when you legally buy a firearm on behalf of someone who cannot buy it themselves. In Lancaster County, this is a third-degree felony under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6111(g)(4) and often triggers federal investigation from the ATF. 
Common Straw Purchase Scenarios:
- Buying a gun for a friend or romantic partner with a record
- Filling out paperwork for someone else
- Lying on the ATF Form 4473 at a gun shop or gun show
- Purchasing a firearm and then “transferring” it off the books
Penalties for Straw Purchasing Include:
- Up to 7 years in prison
- $15,000 in fines
- Loss of firearm rights
- Possible federal prosecution and sentencing enhancements
Lancaster County Realities:
Gun purchases at local gun stores or shows in Lancaster, Ephrata, and Quarryville are often monitored closely. If a firearm later shows up at a crime scene and is traced back to you, you could face straw purchase charges—even if your original intent wasn’t criminal.
Our Defense Approach
The prosecution must prove you knowingly bought the firearm for someone else. We look at communication, surveillance footage, and purchase documentation to show lack of intent or misunderstanding.
Charged with a straw purchase in Lancaster County? Don’t talk to police—call The McShane Firm.
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- 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.
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This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
