(LibertySons.org) – Owning a firearm is a constitutionally protected right in the United States, but there are certain laws one must abide by. Traveling internationally with a gun, for instance, requires authorization to transport and clearance from the destination country if they allow weapons in the first place. One state senator is in hot water after he mistakenly traveled to Hong Kong with his pistol.
Washington State Senator Jeff Wilson (R) was flying from San Francisco to Hong Kong for the first leg of his Southeast Asian vacation with his wife when he reached into his briefcase for a piece of gum. In doing so, he discovered his pistol was inside as well. As soon as the plane landed, Wilson went to customs officials to explain the situation. They arrested and charged him with possession of an unregistered firearm. It is of note that Wilson owns the gun legally, and it is registered in the United States.
After posting bail, Wilson was released but is required to stay in the country until his hearing on October 30. Hong Kong authorities seized his travel documents to ensure he didn’t leave. In a statement on his website, Wilson relays that the pistol was unloaded and taking it with him “was an honest mistake,” one he expects “to be resolved shortly.” He could face up to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to $12,800.
More concerning is the fact that Wilson made it through security without Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials detecting it in his luggage. Last year, officials seized more than 6,500 guns, a record-high number. While it’s legal to transport guns, they must be declared and cannot be taken onboard. Instead, passengers must place them in checked baggage. Getting caught with a weapon at a security checkpoint can result in fines of up to $15,000. TSA is investigating the incident, as well.
~Here’s to Our Liberty!
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