What constitutes the 'use' of a firearm under legal statutes?
The ‘use’ of a firearm under legal statutes generally involves an action where the firearm is employed for its designed purpose or as a means to an end. This could mean discharging the weapon, brandishing it to intimidate, or even referencing its presence to exert control. The courts interpret ‘use’ based on the context of the situation.
For example: If during a robbery, a perpetrator threatens with a gun in their hand, even if not fired, this constitutes ‘use.’ Similarly, overtly signaling that they have a gun to control victims’ behavior would also qualify.