Reports have emerged indicating that the Trump administration intends to reinstate the gun rights of actor Mel Gibson, a notable supporter of President Donald Trump. According to The New York Times, Gibson is among ten individuals whose firearm ownership rights are set to be restored, a decision approved by Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Background on Gibson’s Gun Rights Revocation

In 2011, Gibson entered a no-contest plea to a charge of misdemeanor spousal battery involving his former partner, Oksana Grigorieva. This plea resulted in a sentence that included three years of probation, mandatory domestic violence counseling, and community service for a duration of two days.

Though Gibson satisfied the conditions of his sentence within a year, he faced long-term ramifications due to federal laws which restrict firearm access to individuals with a history of domestic violence restraining orders. It’s worth noting that a Los Angeles court vacated his misdemeanor conviction in 2014.

Implications of the Decision

If Gibson’s gun rights are restored at the federal level, various state laws may still impose restrictions that could affect his ability to legally possess firearms. The Justice Department has recently hinted at reforming certain gun regulations, potentially easing restrictions for some who have prior convictions.

Gibson’s Relationship with Trump

Former Justice Department pardon attorney Elizabeth G. Oyer noted that she was dismissed shortly after refusing to endorse Gibson’s application for restored rights. She suggested that there was pressure within the department to recommend Gibson’s case due to his personal ties to President Trump.

Recently, Trump designated Gibson as a special envoy to Hollywood, alongside notable actors Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, emphasizing an initiative to enhance the entertainment industry in the U.S.