Connecticut General Statutes Section 29-38 governs the possession of weapons in motor vehicles. The statute makes it a criminal offense to knowingly have certain weapons in any vehicle owned, operated, or occupied by a person without proper authorization.[1]
Prohibited Conduct
Under CGS 29-38, any person who knowingly has in any vehicle owned, operated, or occupied by such person any of the following is guilty of a Class D felony:[1]
- Any "weapon" as defined by the statute
- Any pistol or revolver for which a proper permit has not been issued under CGS 29-28
- Any machine gun that has not been registered as required by CGS 53-202
Definition of "Weapon"
The statute defines "weapon" broadly to include:[1]
- BB guns
- Blackjacks
- Metal or brass knuckles
- Police batons or nightsticks
- Dirk knives or switch knives
- Any knife with an automatic spring release mechanism and a blade over one and one-half inches in length
- Stilettos
- Any knife with an edged blade four inches or more in length
- Martial arts weapons or electronic defense weapons
- Any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument
Permit Holder Vehicle Carry
A person holding a valid Connecticut State Pistol Permit may carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle. The permit effectively authorizes both on-person and in-vehicle carry of pistols and revolvers.[2]
Transport Without a Permit
A person without a valid pistol permit may transport a firearm in a vehicle only under specific conditions. The firearm must be unloaded and kept in a separate compartment from the ammunition. Notably, the glove compartment does not qualify as a lawful storage location for this purpose.[3]
Exceptions
The statute provides limited exceptions for:[1]
- Officers charged with the preservation of the public peace while engaged in their official duties
- Security guards carrying a baton or nightstick in a vehicle while engaged in their official duties
- Persons enrolled in and currently attending a martial arts school (with official verification)
- Certified martial arts instructors
Penalties
A violation of CGS 29-38 is a Class D felony, punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000, and up to 3 years of probation.[1] The statute applies to anyone who "knowingly" has the prohibited items in the vehicle, meaning the prosecution must prove that the defendant was aware of the weapon's presence.