Lil Wayne Charged with Federal Gun Offense

Lil Wayne was charged yesterday in Florida with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a federal offense that carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

Documents filed in Miami federal court say Wayne had a gun and ammunition on December 23rd of last year despite knowing he had the previous felony on his record.

Authorities said the rapper acknowledged owning the gold-plated handgun after his luggage was searched upon arriving in Miami on a private plane. A search warrant said Lil Wayne told investigators the gun was a Father's Day gift.

His attorney said that there are legal questions about whether mere possession of a weapon by a felon not judged to be dangerous fits the definition of a crime.

Investigators also reported finding suspected illegal drugs in the luggage, but he has has not been charged with a drug offense.

An initial court date on the weapons charge is set for December 11 in Miami federal court.