See 948.60(3)(c). There's a specific exception for shotguns and rifles, as long as they aren't short-barrelled.
You have to follow the links to the other provisions of WI law, and you'll eventually figure out that at age 17, Kyle was not breaking any law of possession, based on his age.
Of course, that doesn't stop the state from throwing the book at him. They are hoping that he won't know the law and his public defender will talk him into pleading to a lesser charge because he is overwhelmed by the prospect of life in prison.
Now that Kyle has competent defense counsel, that shouldn't happen. But, there's a risk of going to trial, and Kyle may choose to take the easy way out.
Don't downvote him for being ignorant. Educate him.
This is the WI law in question:
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/948/60
See 948.60(3)(c). There's a specific exception for shotguns and rifles, as long as they aren't short-barrelled.
You have to follow the links to the other provisions of WI law, and you'll eventually figure out that at age 17, Kyle was not breaking any law of possession, based on his age.
Of course, that doesn't stop the state from throwing the book at him. They are hoping that he won't know the law and his public defender will talk him into pleading to a lesser charge because he is overwhelmed by the prospect of life in prison.
Now that Kyle has competent defense counsel, that shouldn't happen. But, there's a risk of going to trial, and Kyle may choose to take the easy way out.