State police announced the number of firearms purchase denials and subsequent investigations for the second quarter of 2025.

The Pennsylvania Instant Check System is used by county sheriffs, chiefs of police of cities of the first class, and licensed firearms dealers to determine an individual’s legal ability to obtain a firearm through a purchase or transfer, or to acquire a license to carry firearms.

When an individual attempts to provide false information on a state and/or federal form, an investigation is initiated, and an investigation referral is sent to the corresponding law enforcement agency.

According to Pennsylvania law, a person commits a felony of the third degree if he or she makes a false oral or written statement on any federal or state agency form, or willfully present false identification that is likely to deceive the seller, licensed dealer or licensed manufacturer. During the PICS process, some individuals are identified as having an active warrant for their arrest as well.

For the second quarter, the following investigations were initiated by the PSP Firearms Division and referred to PSP troops, municipal police departments, or the ATF for further investigation and possible prosecution (2024 quarterly statistics in parentheses):

• PICS checks conducted — 238,003 (243,579).

• Persons denied — 3,444 (3,435).

• Denials referred to law enforcement agencies — 1,017 (2,404).

• Denials referred to local law enforcement — 480 (1,293).

• Denials referred to ATF — 87 (139).

• Individuals arrested for a warrant at point of purchase — 20 (24).