New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin declared firearm microstamping technology “viable” a year and a half after lawmakers passed a law ordering gun dealers to sell microstamping-capable firearms if the attorney general's office certified the technology. The technology can help law enforcement identify guns used in crimes. New Jersey is one of three states and the District of Columbia has passed laws to expand the use of microstamping. But it's not a foolproof technology, and in some cases, innocent people can get burned. 

If police link you to a crime using microstamping, you need an aggressive and experienced defense lawyer who can build a strong case in your defense. You need the Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team. Contact us today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to fight for your rights.  

What Is Firearm Microstamping? 

When law enforcement investigates a shooting, they look for evidence, such as witnesses, surveillance video, and the “smoking gun.” Sometimes, the only evidence besides the victim is a handful of spent casings. Those casings can give a general idea of the type of firearm used in a shooting. But with microstamping, law enforcement may be better able to pinpoint the exact weapon that discharged those casings.  

Microstamping is a technology that uses lasers to engrave identifying marks onto a gun's firing pin, such as geometric shapes or letters. When the firearm discharges a round, the firing pins imprint this unique identifier on the bullet casing. Gun reform advocates celebrate the technology, arguing that it can help solve more shootings. However, firearm microstamping has some important pitfalls that may lead to false firearm charges.  

How Reliable Is Firearm Microstamping? 

It took Platkin roughly 18 months to determine whether microstamping was viable. During that time, examiners in his office assessed existing peer-reviewed studies and tested the technology at a state police range using a Colt handgun. However, there are mixed reviews on how well the technology works. One of the biggest debates is on the legibility of the codes stamped on the individual casings. Certain circumstances—such as how often a gun has been used or the type of firearm or ammunition—could influence the quality of the impressions made on casings. Illegible markings could make it easier for someone to misinterpret them, leading to wrongful convictions.  

Facing Firearm Charges in New Jersey? Contact the Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team Today. 

With or without firearm microstamping technology, firearm charges can lead to serious and long-term consequences. Don't leave your case up to just any lawyer. It's important to have a criminal defense lawyer who understands New Jersey gun laws and who will work hard to build a strong case in your defense. Contact the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to ensure the best possible outcome in your case.