Unlawful Possession of Dangerous Ordnance Defense

Trusted Dayton Defense Attorneys for Illegal Possession of Dangerous Ordnance

At Gounaris Abboud, our Dayton defense attorneys bring decades of experience to cases involving the unlawful possession of dangerous ordnance. We understand the serious consequences these charges carry and are committed to protecting your rights at every stage of the legal process.

If you’ve been accused of possessing explosives, military-grade firearms, or other restricted weapons, our team has the legal knowledge and courtroom experience needed to protect you and your freedom. We offer personalized, strategic defense to clients in Dayton and the surrounding areas.

Call us today at 937-222-1515 for a free, confidential consultation.

Penalties for Dangerous Ordnance Violations Under Ohio Law

The consequences for unlawful possession are severe:

• Possession of dangerous ordnance: A fifth-degree felony punishable by up to 12 months imprisonment and fines of up to $2,500.
• Manufacturing explosives without proper licensing: A second-degree felony resulting in up to 8 years imprisonment and fines of up to $15,000.

A conviction will result in a permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, and potential employment and housing difficulties.

Our Dangerous Ordnance Defense Strategies

Our criminal defense team takes a thorough, strategic approach to every case involving unlawful possession of dangerous ordnance. We focus on key areas that can make a significant difference in the outcome:

• Challenging the classification of the item as dangerous ordnance under Ohio law.
• Reviewing search and seizure procedures for potential Fourth Amendment violations.
• Arguing a lack of knowledge that the item was considered dangerous ordnance.
• Identifying statutory exemptions that may apply to your case, such as the use of an affirmative defense where justifications are available under the law.
• Demonstrating compliance with applicable laws.
• Negotiating with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or alternative resolutions.

Each case is different, and we tailor our defense to the facts, evidence, and opportunities unique to your situation.

What Constitutes “Dangerous Ordnance” in Ohio?

Ohio Revised Code (ORC) § 2923.11 defines different types of weapons. In its definition of the term “dangerous ordnance”, ORC includes these items:

• Automatic firearms, sawed-off shotguns, zip guns, and ballistic knives
• Explosive and incendiary devices like bombs and Molotov cocktails
• Explosive substances like TNT, dynamite, nitroglycerin, blasting powder, and plastic explosives
• Weapons like rocket launchers, mortars, grenades, and mines that are designed or manufactured for military use
• Firearm suppressors and silencers
• Any combination of parts intended to convert a firearm into dangerous ordnance

Firearms that are used for sport or hunting are not included under the definition of dangerous ordnance, with the exception of automatic and sawed-off firearms.

There are other exceptions to the definition, including military-grade firearms that use obsolete ignition systems or that have been deactivated.

Who Can Legally Possess Dangerous Ordnance?

Ohio law allows certain individuals to possess dangerous ordnance in specific situations:

• Law enforcement officers acting within the scope of their duties
• Members of the armed forces acting within the scope of their duties
• Licensed explosives manufacturers, dealers, and users with proper federal permits
• Individuals with properly registered items in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record
• Licensed carriers and warehouses transporting or storing such items legally
• Persons with specific licenses or permits issued under ORC § 2923.18

All of these exemptions are subject to compliance with other regulations, such as the federal Gun Control Act.