Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has announced a settlement in a civil lawsuit against Point Blank Guns and Ammo LLC, a firearms retailer accused of selling gun-related products to undercover investigators without verifying their legal eligibility to possess firearms. The lawsuit, filed by Attorney General Platkin and the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Office, alleged that Point Blank made sales without checking identification or permits.

The case stems from two incidents: one in March 2024 when the store sold a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time buyer, and another two months later involving the sale of a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition. Both transactions were conducted in cash without any verification of the buyers' credentials.

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of compliance with firearm laws, stating, "I will not tolerate lax and unlawful practices by firearms businesses—the very kind that can lead to a deadly mass shooting." He added that adherence to these laws is crucial for public safety.

Ravi Ramanathan, Director of SAFE, noted that the settlement underscores the effectiveness of civil accountability laws. "Gun stores must take reasonable steps to make sure that they only sell ammunition and other gun-related products to people who can lawfully possess a firearm," he said.

Under the consent order pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:58-35(a)(2), Point Blank agreed to implement procedures preventing sales to prohibited individuals. They are required to verify purchasers through valid New Jersey firearms cards or permits and must keep detailed records of all sales for three years.

Point Blank also agreed to pay $2,500 for costs associated with bringing the lawsuit. The SAFE Office continues its mission as an industry compliance watchdog established by Attorney General Platkin in 2022 under P.L. 2022, c. 56 legislation aimed at reducing gun violence.