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NewsFox News PoliticsMay 5, 2026United States

Department of Justice Sues Denver Over Semi-Automatic Rifle Ban

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the City and County of Denver, arguing that the city's ban on certain semi-automatic rifles is unconstitutional. The federal government contends that these firearms are in common use and protected under the Second Amendment.

Second AmendmentLawsuitGun ControlDenverDepartment of Justice
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Why It Matters

The outcome of this lawsuit could determine whether Denver can continue to enforce its local ban on specific s or if the city must repeal the to comply with federal interpretations of the .

Key Facts

  • The Department of Justice filed a 12-page lawsuit against the City and County of Denver and the Denver Police Department.
  • The lawsuit challenges a local ordinance that makes the possession of certain semi-automatic rifles a crime.
  • The DOJ argues that the banned rifles, including AR-15-style models, are in common use and protected by the Second Amendment.
  • The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado.
  • The DOJ cites the 2008 Supreme Court decision in District of Columbia v. Heller as the legal basis for its challenge.
  • The DOJ's Second Amendment Section, a new division, is leading the defense of this case.

Who's Mentioned

organizationDenver Police Department“Named as a defendant in the lawsuit.”otherDistrict of Columbia v. Heller“2008 Supreme Court case cited as legal precedent.”organizationDepartment of Justice“The federal agency filing the lawsuit.”personHarmeet K. Dhillon“Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division.”locationCity and County of Denver“The defendant in the lawsuit.”personTodd Blanche“Acting Attorney General.”