English
EspañolWho do I notify if I think the abuser should not have a gun?
If you think the abuser broke a state gun law, you can call the local police, the sheriff’s department, or the State Police.
If you think the abuser broke a federal gun law, you can contact the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF). There are several different ways to do this:
- The ATF has a hotline for reporting illegal gun activity at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867).
- The ATF also has both an app and a website to allow people to submit anonymous tips. There is more information on their website.
- There is a list of ATF field offices in Iowa on the ATF website if you would like to speak to someone local.
Many ATF offices have victim advocates, called “victim/witness coordinators.” You can ask to speak with one of these advocates if you are having a hard time reaching an ATF officer.
A local domestic violence organization in your area may also be able to answer your questions and help you talk to the right law enforcement officials. You can find contact information for organizations in your area on our IA Advocates and Shelters page.
Note: Generally, a person does not need to know the law to be arrested for breaking it. If the abuser has or buys a gun in violation of the law, s/he can be arrested, whether or not s/he knows that s/he broke the law.1
1 United States v. Lippman, 369 F. 3d 1039 (8th Cir. 2004); United States v. Henson, 55 F. Supp. 2d 528 (S.D. W.V. 1999)
