(Washington, DC) – The Police Complaints Board (PCB), governing body of the Office of Police Complaints (OPC), has released a new policy report, Duties of Firearm Licensees, outlining concerns related to how Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers enforce firearm regulations for individuals with valid concealed carry permits in the District.

The report examines OPC cases where MPD officers improperly seized legally registered firearms and issued pistol license violation charges due to misunderstandings of D.C. law and the department’s General Order on duties of firearms licensees. Specifically, the findings show that some MPD officers mistakenly believe that firearm licensees must immediately disclose their armed status during any police interaction, rather than only during investigatory stops as required by law.

The PCB key recommendations from the report include:

• Updating MPD’s General Order 902.01 to explicitly clarify that firearm licensees are only required to disclose their status during investigatory stops—not during field contacts.
• Providing training for all sworn officers to ensure they understand and correctly apply D.C. firearm laws and General Order 902.01, reducing the risk of unlawful firearm seizures and enhancing community trust.

“MPD officers play a critical role in enforcing gun laws while respecting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners,” said Michael G. Tobin, executive director of OPC. “Ensuring officers have clear guidance and proper training is essential to preventing wrongful seizures and unnecessary criminal charges.”

To view the full report, visit www.policecomplaints.dc.gov.