Firearms B Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence or Drug Trafficking Crime is a United States federal crime that prohibits the possession of a firearm in relation to a violent or drug trafficking crime. This offense carries a lengthy prison sentence and can be charged in addition to the underlying crime. It is a type of federal gun crime and is punishable under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1). Types of firearms include handguns, shotguns, rifles, machine guns, and assault weapons. To be convicted of this crime, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to use the firearm in the furtherance of a crime of violence or drug trafficking. Examples of such activities include carrying a firearm while committing a drug deal, displaying a firearm threateningly during an armed robbery, or using a firearm to intimidate a witness.