NSSF and ATF create public campaign to reduce illegal gun purchases

Mon, 2014-02-17 04:56 PMBy: Ashley Bennett


The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), a firearm industry trade association, has partnered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to promote the “Don’t Lie for the Other Guy” public campaign in Chicago, Detroit, and Flint to reduce illegal “straw” gun purchases, in which someone buys a gun for someone else who isn’t permitted to do so.

In order to purchase a firearm, people must comply with state and local laws in addition to passing an FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check.

"The firearms industry is proud of its longstanding cooperative relationship with the ATF and the entire law enforcement community by assisting them in their efforts to combat the criminal acquisition and misuse of firearms,” said Lawrence Keane, NSSF senior vice president and general counsel.

The aim of the campaign is to make the general public aware that straw purchasing is a felony.

The crime is punishable by up to 10 years in jail or up to $250,000 in fines. "Our goal is to raise awareness among residents of Chicago, Detroit, Flint, and the surrounding areas through billboards and radio ads that there are serious consequences for illegally straw purchasing a firearm," said Stephen Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO. A repeated campaign message states: "Buy a gun for someone who can't and buy 10 years in jail. Whatever you do…don't lie for the other guy."

The campaign also seeks to help firearm dealers understand what to look for to prevent straw purchases. Firearm dealers can receive a Don't Lie for the Other Guy retailer kit, which includes brochures, display items, and a training video. Sanetti explained, "Federally licensed firearms retailers are on the front line every day working to prevent illegal purchases. This warning can help deter an illegal purchase long before a person steps into a store."

For more information about the “Don’t Lie for the Other Guy” campaign, please visit their website at www.Dontlie.org. More information about the NSSF is available at www.NSSF.org.

http://www.gsnmagazine.com/node/40253?c=law_enforcement_first_responders