Rod Wave's Arrest and the Reality of Gun Charges in DC: What You Need to Know

Rod Wave’s Arrest and the Reality of Gun Charges in DC: What You Need to Know

August 19, 2025

Written by Criminal Defense Attorney Christopher J. Mutimer

The headlines buzzed recently: “Rapper Rod Wave Arrested on Gun and Assault Charges in Georgia.” Details are still emerging, with Wave’s attorneys claiming he’s a victim of a burglary and that the charges are “incomprehensible.” According to USA TODAY, the charges stem from an alleged incident on April 21st and include aggravated assault, possession of a firearm, aiming a gun at someone, simple assault, reckless conduct, damaging property, obstructing law enforcement, tampering with evidence, and conspiracy to commit a felony. Regardless of the outcome, it serves as a stark reminder that gun-related charges are serious business, and they can happen to anyone, anywhere.

While Rod Wave’s case unfolds in Georgia, it raises important questions about gun laws and the potential consequences of firearm-related offenses. And that brings us to you. If you or a loved one is facing gun charges in Washington DC you need to understand your rights and the potential penalties. At Monument Legal, our DC illegal firearm possession attorneys are here to provide the guidance and defense you need.

DC: A City with Strict Gun Laws

Washington DC has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. The city’s regulations are designed to curb gun violence and ensure public safety. However, these laws can also be complex and confusing, leading to unintentional violations.

Carrying a Pistol Without a License (CPWL): A Common Charge in DC

One of the most common gun charges in DC is Carrying a Pistol Without a License (CPWL). This offense is outlined in DC Official Code § 22-4504(a). To put it simply, if you’re caught carrying a pistol in DC without a valid license, you could face serious penalties.

What Does it Mean to “Carry” a Pistol?

The definition of “carrying” a pistol is broader than you might think. It’s not just about having a gun in your hand. It can include:

Having a pistol concealed on your person (e.g., in a pocket or waistband)
Having a pistol in a bag or backpack that you’re carrying
Having a pistol in your vehicle, even if it’s in the glove compartment or under the seat.

Penalties for CPWL in DC

The penalties for CPWL in DC can be severe:

First Offense: Up to five year in jail and significant fines that range as high as $250,000 in certain situations. A dedicated DC firearm attorney will help you avoid jail time, fines and may get your entire case dismissed.
Subsequent Offenses: Increased jail time and fines.
Prior Felony Convictions: Significantly harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences of up to one year.

Other Firearm Offenses in DC

Besides CPWL, there are several other firearm offenses you should be aware of in DC:

Possession of an Unregistered Firearm (DC Official Code § 7-2502.01): In DC, all firearms must be registered. If you possess a firearm that’s not properly registered, you could face criminal charges. The penalties can include fines and jail time, depending on the circumstances.
Unlawful Possession of Ammunition (DC Official Code § 7-2506.01): You must be properly registered to possess ammunition.
Possession of a Prohibited Weapon (DC Official Code § 22-4503): Certain weapons are illegal to possess in DC, including machine guns, sawed-off shotguns, and certain types of knives.
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (ADW) (DC Official Code § 22-402): If you use a firearm to threaten or injure someone, you could be charged with ADW. This is a serious felony offense with significant penalties.

Back to Rod Wave: Could His Situation Happen in DC?

Let’s consider Rod Wave’s situation in the context of DC law. While the details of his case are still unclear, the charges of aggravated assault and aiming a gun at someone are particularly relevant.

In DC, these actions could potentially lead to charges of:

Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (ADW): If Wave allegedly used the firearm to threaten or injure someone, he could face ADW charges.
Threats (DC Official Code § 22-1810): Even if Wave didn’t physically injure anyone, simply threatening someone with a firearm could be a crime in DC.
Reckless Endangerment (DC Official Code § 22-2104): Discharging a firearm in a reckless manner, even if no one is injured, could lead to reckless endangerment charges.

Possible Defenses to DC Gun Charges

If you’re facing gun charges in DC, there are several potential defenses that a skilled attorney can explore:

Lack of Knowledge: The prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed the firearm. If you were unaware that the gun was in your possession (e.g., it was hidden in a car you borrowed), that could be a defense. However, this defense rarely works.
Illegal Search and Seizure: If the police obtained the firearm through an illegal search or seizure (e.g., without a warrant or probable cause), the evidence might be suppressed, meaning it can’t be used against you in court. This argument must be litigated as a trial.
Self-Defense: If you used the firearm in self-defense, that could be a valid defense, as long as your actions were reasonable and proportionate to the threat you faced.
Lack of Intent: For charges like ADW, the prosecution must prove that you intended to threaten or injure someone. If you didn’t have the required intent, that could be a defense.
Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, you might have a defense of entrapment. This rarely works.
Defense of Others: In some circumstances, you are justified to possess a weapon to defend someone else.

Important Considerations

“Victim of a Burglary” Defense: Rod Wave’s attorneys claim he was the victim of a burglary. In DC, being a victim of a crime doesn’t automatically excuse you from complying with gun laws. If Wave possessed the firearm illegally (e.g., it was unregistered), he could still face charges, even if he was using it to protect himself or his property.
The Importance of Legal Representation: If you’re facing gun charges in DC, it’s crucial to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of DC gun laws and can effectively advocate for your rights

How Monument Legal Can Help

At Monument Legal, our DC gun possession attorneys have a proven track record of success in defending clients facing firearm charges. We understand the stress and uncertainty you’re experiencing, and we’re here to provide you with the strong legal representation you deserve.

Here’s how we can help:

Thorough Case Review: We’ll carefully review the facts of your case, police reports, and any other relevant evidence to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your defense.
Strategic Defense Planning: We’ll develop a customized defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances and goals.
Negotiation with Prosecutors: We’ll negotiate with prosecutors to seek a favorable resolution, such as reduced charges or a dismissal of the case.
Trial Representation: If a trial is necessary, we’ll vigorously defend you in court, presenting a compelling case on your behalf.
Guidance and Support: We’ll provide you with clear and honest advice throughout the entire legal process, ensuring that you understand your rights and options.

If you or a loved one has been arrested on gun charges in Washington DC, time is of the essence.

Contact Monument Legal today for a confidential consultation. Our experienced DC illegal firearm possession attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and protect your future. We will aggressively defend you so that you can get back to living your life.