DOJ Files New Complaint Targeting Virgin Islands’ Semiauto and Magazine Ban
The Department of Justice lodged a supplemental complaint accusing the U.S. Virgin Islands of violating the Second Amendment with its recent bans on modern semiautomatic rifles, standard-capacity magazines and related restrictions.
On Wednesday the Department of Justice filed a First Supplemental and Amended Complaint against the U.S. Virgin Islands, alleging that the territory’s newly enacted Act No. 9113 violates the Second Amendment. The law, signed by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. on June 24, imposes bans on modern semiautomatic firearms, standard-capacity magazines, suppressors, as well as restrictions on public-demonstration and long-gun carry, storage, and registration.
The DOJ argues these measures create a pattern of unlawful conduct by the Virgin Islands Police Department, contravening the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision. Judge Evan Rikhye of the District of the Virgin Islands has criticized the territorial government’s counsel for repeatedly missing court-ordered deadlines and filing untimely motions. Despite a motion to dismiss the case as moot, the DOJ rejected the argument and listed nine specific provisions it deems unconstitutional. Attorney General Gordon Campbell Rhea has not provided comment, and the litigation continues to focus on the constitutionality of the territory’s gun-control regime.
Why it matters
The case could reshape gun-rights jurisprudence and affect firearm regulations in U.S. territories.
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