Trending
The Pennsylvania State Police announced Friday the number of firearms purchase denials and subsequent investigations for the third quarter of 2026.
The Pennsylvania Instant Check System PICS is used by county sheriffs, chiefs of police of cities of the first class, and licensed firearms dealers to determine an individual's legal ability to acquire a license to carry firearms or obtain a firearm through a purchase or transfer. When an individual attempts to provide false information on a state and/or federal form, an investigation is initiated, and an investigation referral is sent to the corresponding law enforcement agency.
According to Pennsylvania law, a person commits a felony of the third degree if they make a false oral or written statement on any federal or state agency form or willfully present false identification that is likely to deceive the seller, licensed dealer, or licensed manufacturer. During the PICS process, some individuals are identified as having an active warrant for their arrest as well.
For the 3rd quarter, the following investigations were initiated by the PSP Firearms Division and referred to PSP Troops, municipal police departments, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives ATF for further investigation and possible prosecution.
In 2026, there were 247,990 checks with 3,778 denied and 810 referred to law enforcement agencies, 165 referred to PSP, 560 to municipal enforcement with 85 referred to ATF. Eighteen individuals were arrested for a warrant at point of purchase.