Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What actions constitute the use or display of a firearm in the commission of a crime?

1. Use, attempt to use, or display in a threatening manner

2. Casing a location for robbery

3. Showing a firearm during negotiations

4. Displaying a firearm at a party

The correct answer is: Use, attempt to use, or display in a threatening manner

The correct choice embodies the core elements that specifically relate to the use or display of a firearm in the context of committing a crime. When considering the actions that fall under this category, it's crucial to capture the intent and behavior associated with firearms during criminal activities. Using, attempting to use, or displaying a firearm in a threatening manner clearly aligns with the definition of coercive or violent behavior, which is integral to many crimes, particularly in situations like robbery or assault. The mere possession of a firearm, when coupled with intentions to intimidate or control others, significantly enhances the severity of the offense and indicates a clear use of the weapon in a criminal context. In contrast, the other choices do not inherently involve the aggressive use or threatening display of a firearm. Casing a location for robbery refers more to planning rather than action, and may or may not involve a firearm at all. Showing a firearm during negotiations suggests a different context—potentially that of coercion or intimidation outside of immediate criminal action. Displaying a firearm at a party lacks the necessary context of criminal intent or action and does not constitute a display in the commission of a crime, unless it is paired with other aggressive behaviors. Overall, the focus on actual use or intimidation connected with the