Inherited handgun

Question
My uncle was the chaplain for a local police department in the 70's and had a S&W 19-3 .357 revolver. He recently passed away and my father allowed me to keep the gun, holsters, belt, cuffs, etc. Am I obgilated to contact the police department? To be honest, I'm not even sure if it was a police issue, or a personally paid for firearm. Thanks.

Answer
Michael,

No...you aren't obligated to contact the police department.  The gear you describe is all legal for you to own and doesn't involve any police credentials (badge, id, etc).  

It could have been departmental issue, but some smaller departments require that their officers purchase their own duty gear.  If it was departmental issue, clearly they never asked for it back and it sounds like your uncle might have had it for a very long time.

I'd be inclined to say that it sounds like you have a very nice keepsake from your uncle.  I'd make sure you record the serial number of the firearm and keep it in a safe place in case the gun is ever lost or stolen.  

That would really be the only time you would need to report anything to the police.

Best regards,


Doug