Which statute is commonly used to charge unlawful possession of firearms by gang members?

The statute commonly used to charge unlawful possession of firearms by gang members is 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). This section specifically addresses the prohibited categories of individuals who are not allowed to possess firearms, which includes individuals who are members of a gang and have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, among others.

The significance of this statute lies in its clear definition of who falls into the category of "prohibited persons." By establishing criteria that disqualifies certain individuals from lawfully obtaining or possessing firearms, § 922(g) provides a legal framework that law enforcement can use to address issues of gun possession related to gang activity and public safety.

In contrast, other statutes listed, such as § 924, relate to penalties for certain violations of firearms laws and provide for the enhancement of penalties under specific circumstances, but they do not define the categories of prohibited possessors. Meanwhile, § 921 offers definitions pertinent to firearms and ammunition laws, and § 923 deals with the licensing of dealers in firearms, none of which specifically focus on the unlawful possession aspect that is relevant for gang members. This distinction is crucial in understanding how the legal system approaches the enforcement of firearms regulations among gang-affiliated individuals.