Social media checks for firearms licence applications (FOI)

Request 

Following the recent shooting of six innocent people in Plymouth carried out by a man who was fuelling unchecked hate on Social Media.

I would like to know whether the States of Jersey Police check the Social Media activity of all applicants who apply for Gun Ownership, with specific reference to any resentment and hate against for so called 'Jersey Way' on local Blogs and Twitter accounts?

Response

The issue of a Firearms Certificate is the sole responsibility of the Constable of the Parish where the applicant resides. The States of Jersey Police keep a register of all firearms certificate holders and supply the Constable with any police information held on the applicant prior to the application being approved, and any relevant information received during the lifetime of the certificate.

Under Article 3(4) of the Firearms (Jersey) Law 2000:

4) A firearm certificate shall be granted by the Connétable if he or she is satisfied –

(a) that the applicant is fit to be entrusted with a firearm and is not prohibited by this Law from possessing a firearm to which Article 2, applies;

(b) that the applicant has a good reason for having in his or her possession, or for purchasing or acquiring, the firearm or ammunition in respect of which the application is made; and

(c) that in all the circumstances the applicant can be permitted to have the firearm or ammunition in his or her possession without danger to the public safety or to the peace.