Aggravated discharge of a firearm is one of the most severe weapon crimes under the Illinois Criminal Code. Any person who commits this offense will face felony charges and the definite possibility of a prison sentence and criminal fines.
How Does Illinois Define Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm?
The Illinois definition of aggravated discharge of a firearm appears at 720 ILCS 5/24-1.2. A person violates this section if they knowingly or intentionally discharge a firearm:
- At or into a building from outside knowing, or having a reason to know, that the building is occupied;
- In the direction of another person;
- In the direction of a vehicle knowing, or having a reason to know, that the vehicle is occupied;
- In the direction of a person knowing that such person is a peace officer, community policing volunteer, correctional institution employee, or firefighter performing their official duties;
- In the direction of a vehicle knowing that such vehicle is occupied by a peace officer, community policing volunteer, correctional institution employee, or firefighter performing their official duties;
- In the direction of a person knowing that such person is an emergency medical services provider performing their official duties;
- In the direction of a vehicle knowing that such vehicle is occupied by an emergency medical services provider performing their official duties;
- In the direction of a person knowing that such person is a teacher or school employee performing their official duties on school grounds;
- In the direction of a person knowing that such person is an emergency management worker performing their official duties; or
- In the direction of a vehicle knowing that such vehicle is occupied by an emergency management worker performing their official duties.
What is the Illinois Punishment for Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm?
The Illinois punishment for aggravated discharge of a firearm also appears under Section 24-1.2. But depending on the circumstances of the offense, an offender can face different charges.
Aggravated discharge of a firearm at or into a building from the outside is a Class 1 felony. The same is true for offenses committed in the direction of another person or the direction of a vehicle. Upon conviction for this felony in Illinois, the punishment includes criminal fines up to $25,000 and four to 15 years in prison.
All other versions of aggravated discharge of a firearm are Class X felonies. Upon conviction for this felony in Illinois, the punishment includes criminal fines up to $25,000 and 10 to 45 years in prison.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all charges are serious. A sound strategy and an aggressive defense are essential for a positive outcome. To protect your rights in such situations, it is highly advisable to retain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Prior Law Firm in Bloomington, Illinois, has proven experience in matters of criminal defense. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free consultation. You can reach The Prior Law Firm by phone at (309) 827-4300, by email at johnprior@thepriorlawfirm.com, or by completing an online form.