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Can a baseball bat be considered a weapon?

On Behalf of | Jun 3, 2022 | Criminal Defense |

Baseball is a beloved sport across California. There are numerous teams who play at the highest level. The sport is also a common pastime among citizens.

Thus, there are numerous legitimate scenarios where you might expect a person to have a baseball bat on their person. However, like many other popular items, baseball bats can be used as a weapon. Can you be charged for having a baseball bat on you?

What is the purpose of having it?

If you’re on the way to baseball practice, then it’s extremely unlikely for you to face any charges for having a bat in the car. You have a legitimate reason for carrying the implement and have no intention of using it for any other purpose than playing the sport.

What if the bat has been modified?

Modifications to a baseball bat can make it unsuitable for playing the game but very useful as a weapon. For instance, if you have drilled holes in the bat to make it lighter, or attached sharp metal spikes, the bat is now unusable in terms of baseball but could still do a lot of damage to a person. Under the California Penal Code section 22210, such an item is likely to be categorized as a “billy bat.” Possessing a weapon like this can result in severe criminal penalties.

If you’re facing weapons charges in California, then it is crucial that you build a defense strategy. A conviction for such an offense could result in you losing your job and even having to serve a prison sentence. Reaching out to an experienced California criminal defense attorney will help you obtain the most favorable outcome in your case.