Is the display of a firearm in the commission of a felony considered a separate and distinct felony with a consecutive sentence?

• A. False
• B. Not determinable
• C. True
• D. It depends on jurisdiction

Answer: (C)

Displaying a firearm during the commission of a felony creates a separate offense because it adds a distinct element—the weapon’s display—that heightens danger and creates independent liability beyond the underlying felony. This allows for conviction on both counts and, in many jurisdictions, for the sentences to run consecutively, since each offense carries its own penalty. For example, someone who commits a burglary and, during the burglary, displays a handgun can be charged with burglary and with the firearm-display offense, with the firearm sentence served after the burglary sentence unless the statute provides for concurrent sentencing. This structure reflects the purpose of the provision: punishing the increased risk and intimidation caused by displaying a firearm during a felony.