How Firearm Enhancements Increase Prison Time For Criminal Charges?

In Washington, a firearm enhancement typically adds 5 years to prison time for most felony charges when a gun is proven present and connected to the crime. It’s most commonly charged in drug cases, especially possession with intent to deliver, where prosecutors allege a weapon was readily available. This article explains when enhancements apply, how they’re proven, and ways defense counsel fights them.

Ray Hrdlicka – Host – Attorneys.Media

“Is there a type of underlying crime that is more prevalent when firearm enhancement, the additional charge, is levied with the case?”

Spencer Freeman – Criminal Defense Attorney – Pierce County, WA

“I think that it’s drug cases where it’s most prevalent.”

Ray Hrdlicka – Host – Attorneys.Media

“So, is it possession? Is it sales? Is it distribution?”

Spencer Freeman – Criminal Defense Attorney- Pierce County, WA

“It’s usually possession with intent to deliver. Sometimes the police have enough evidence to charge an actual sale, but usually they’re charging with possession with intent to deliver.”