Is It a Crime to Possess Body Armor in Connecticut?

 Posted on April 07, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Although the debate over gun laws continues across the country, many people may not be aware of what some of the laws are regarding accessories that are associated with firearms. One such category is body armor. Although body armor is something that is typically used by police and the military, there are more and more private citizens who are purchasing these items. If you are considering a purchase, it is important you understand what the laws are in Connecticut before doing so. Otherwise, you could face serious criminal consequences.

What Is Considered Body Armor?

There are several types of articles of clothing that the law classifies as body armor. These items contain Kevlar – or another similar material – that is designed to prevent bullets from penetrating the person utilizing the item. There are two types of body armor used in these items.  Hard body armor is made up of rigid plates or panels. Items that are classified as hard body armor include military-style items, like surveillance vests and flak jackets.

Soft body armor still has Kevlar. However, the panels are made up of softer materials. This type of armor is usually used in vests that are worn over shirts and can be worn on a daily basis, like the vests used by many police officers today.

Connecticut Laws on Body Armor

No one who has been convicted of a felony is allowed to purchase or possess body armor under state law. If you are wearing body armor during the commission of a crime, the charges you will face will be greatly elevated than they would be without wearing body armor.

The state of Connecticut has the toughest laws when it comes to purchasing body armor. You are not allowed to purchase or sell body armor in the state other than in face-to-face sales. No online purchases are allowed. A person who is accused of violating this law can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, facing up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine if convicted.

Contact a Stamford, CT Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a violation of Connecticut’s body armor law, do not try to defend against these charges on your own. Call Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner at 203-348-5846 to schedule a free and confidential consultation with one of our skilled Fairfield County criminal law attorneys and find out what legal options you may have to defend against these charges.

Source:

https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/247281.pdf

https://www.cga.ct.gov/2009/rpt/2009-R-0401.htm