McLaughlin v. United States (1985)
- Docket
- 85-5189
- Decided
- 1985-01-01
Summary
Question: Is an unloaded handgun a "dangerous weapon" within the meaning of the federal bank robbery statute? Conclusion: Yes. In a unanimous opinion delivered by Justice John Paul Stevens, the Court held that an unloaded handgun is a "dangerous weapon" within the meaning of the federal bank robbery statute, 18 USC section 2113(d). The Court articulated three reasons supporting the conclusion that such a gun is a dangerous weapon: First, a gun is an article that is typically and characteristically dangerous. Second, the display of a gun instills fear in the average citizen. Finally, a gun can cause harm when used as a bludgeon.