Submitted by Robert Firriolo, Jan 3, 2008 16:22

All too often these stories turn out to be little more than another episode in NYPD's Gun Control Theater. More often than not the alleged "machine guns" are not really machine-guns (i.e., fully automatic), and it is doubtful that the weapon in question, seized only yesterday, was tested and confirmed to be a machine-gun. The AR-15 certainly isn't a machine-gun, nor is it an assault rifle because it isn't select fire. (It could be an "assault weapon" under NYS law depending on the configuration and date of manufacture, and is likely illegal under NYC's "assault weapon" ban).

How many of the nine guns seized from his home were possessed illegally?

And why include "combat knives," "bullet proof vests" and "police type radios" in the so-called arsenal? Bullet-proof vests are legal to possess unless one intends to use them to commit a crime. Same with "combat knives," at least within one's dwelling. And since when are radios weapons?

Will Ray Kelly and the DA's office hold another big press conference when they have to admit that most of the seized items are not illegal? Don't hold your breath.

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