DC Knife Blade Limits & Intent to Use Unlawfully

K

Krefcenz

Joined
May 24, 2002
Messages
763
I am wondering about Washington DC's 3 inch blade limit on knives. The relevant law says:

(b) No person shall within the District of Columbia possess, with intent to
use unlawfully against another , an imitation pistol, or a dagger, dirk, razor,
stiletto, or knife with a blade longer than 3 inches, or other dangerous
weapon.

I'm wondering what effect the "with intent..." clause has on the legality of just carrying a knife with a 3 & 1/2 inch blade if one keeps it in his pocket. Or does the simple fact you have a blade longer than 3 inches establish the intent itself (much the same way having a controlled substance over a certain amount is deemed to constitute intent to distribute)? Is there any case law on this? Any experiences with Metro Police? Thanks.

Kref
 
The problem with laws based on "intent" is that when it is written, by the arresting officer, in his report, that you "were apprehended while in possession of a concealed weapon with intent..." that is all the judge reads, believes, and needs.

You'll be arguing your defense against the word of a Cop. Hope you've got witnesses, i guess?
 
A few delicas in your hand when needed for defense will solve that possible issue.

It could be that using anything over three inches in length during a self defense situation may be looked at thusly, that by carrying it in the first place over 3 " you inteded to use it defensively and did so, showing intent [ to possibly harm, even in your own defense ].

Brownie
 
Originally posted by Krefcenz

(b) No person shall within the District of Columbia possess, with intent to
use unlawfully against another , an imitation pistol, or a dagger, dirk, razor,
stiletto, or knife with a blade longer than 3 inches, or other dangerous
weapon.
Click to expand...


Hi :) Are you sure that's the current law in Washington, DC? If so could you let me know the source? I'd like to read up on it on Monday. Thanks
 
Thanks I found the section in Lexis Nexis just to double check it. The actual law is different than I had thought for many years now.
 
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