Mel Gibson Regains Gun Rights Amid Controversial Justice Department Decision

WASHINGTON, April 3, 2025 — Actor Mel Gibson is set to have his gun rights restored by the U.S. Department of Justice, following a contentious internal debate and his well-known support for former President Donald Trump. Gibson lost his firearm privileges after pleading no contest in 2011 to a misdemeanor battery charge involving domestic violence against a former girlfriend.

Sources confirm that Attorney General Pam Bondi approved the decision allowing Gibson to once again own guns. He is among ten individuals with felony convictions who will have their gun rights reinstated, a move reported by The New York Times on Thursday.

The decision has sparked a significant backlash within the Justice Department. Elizabeth G. Oyer, the former U.S. pardon attorney who opposed the restoration of Gibson’s rights, was reportedly fired following her refusal to recommend him. Oyer claims she faced pressure from a Justice Department official, who indicated that Gibson’s personal ties to Trump were a compelling reason for the approval.

“Giving guns back to domestic abusers is a serious matter,” Oyer stated in an interview with The New York Times. “There are real consequences that flow from people who have a history of domestic violence being in possession of firearms.” Oyer emphasized that Gibson’s past behavior raised serious concerns about the implications of restoring his gun rights.

The actor, known for controversial incidents including a 2006 DUI arrest where he made antisemitic remarks, had previously attempted to purchase a firearm in Nevada, but was denied due to his conviction. Now, with the Justice Department’s new stance, he is expected to gain clearance to acquire weapons.

In addition to Gibson, the DOJ’s proposal follows President Trump’s directive for a review of the nation’s gun control laws. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has long been unable to restore firearms rights due to congressional restrictions.

The DOJ suggested that future decisions regarding the restoration of gun rights will take into account the nature of an individual’s previous convictions, along with their current lawful behavior. However, critics express concern that these changes could lead to an increased risk of firearms ending up in the hands of violent offenders.

John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety, condemned the initiative, stating, “The Trump Administration is throwing out decades of bipartisan precedent and laying the groundwork to put guns back in the hands of domestic abusers and violent criminals.”

Conversely, gun rights organizations have lauded the move, with Erich Pratt of Gun Owners of America claiming that the interim rule ends the “legal limbo” faced by individuals seeking restoration of their gun rights. Supporters argue that the change reflects a necessary correction for individuals who have been unfairly barred from owning guns.

The ongoing discussion surrounding gun rights restoration, particularly for those with histories of violence, persists as a polarizing issue in American society. As the situation unfolds, the implications for public safety and legal consistency in gun rights will continue to be scrutinized.