How to Retrieve a Firearm from Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement

You'll need a signed release form from the Butte-Silver Bow County Attorney's Office before picking up any firearm. The release must list the specific property and the name of the person receiving it. Bring that signed form plus a picture ID when you go to the Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement Department - the evidence technician will need both.

Evidence releases happen Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you're squeezing this into a workday, build in extra time. There's an on-the-spot background check that can add to your wait.

When you arrive, Butte-Silver Bow runs a background check on whoever's receiving the firearm. This confirms there's nothing prohibiting ownership. Plan for about 30 minutes - your release won't be finalized until the check clears.

Ammunition held alongside a firearm? Expect two trips. It won't be released at the same time - you'll need to come back separately to retrieve it.

If the background check shows you're prohibited from owning a firearm, a transfer may still be an option. You can transfer ownership to another individual by presenting a firearms ownership transfer authorization form - signed and notarized. This route works when you can't legally take possession yourself but want the firearm to go to someone who can.

• ✓ The person receiving ownership must present a picture ID.
• ✓ The person receiving ownership will be subject to a background check.