RI couple's challenge to law banning marijuana users from owning guns lands in appeals court

OG Article By Katie Mulvaney

October 13 2025

Case Overview

A Rhode Island couple, David Worster and Alexzandria Carl, face charges for violating a federal law.The law bans cannabis users from owning guns.They argue it violates their Second Amendment rights.

Court Ruling

U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell Jr. ruled in February.He declared the law unconstitutional.It bans gun possession for cannabis users, even if not intoxicated.The government failed to show historical precedent for the ban.

Evidence Presented

Authorities found a medical cannabis card in Worster’s name.A search revealed two cannabis plants and a small bag of dried cannabis.No evidence showed Worster was intoxicated during his arrest.Carl admitted to occasional cannabis use but omitted it on a gun purchase form.

Charges and Dismissals

McConnell dismissed charges against both for violating the gun ban.He also dropped charges against Carl for false statements on her gun application.Felon-in-possession charges against Worster remain.

Background of Charges

In 2021, federal authorities intercepted gun silencers from China.One package was addressed to Worster, another to Carl in Pawtucket.A search of Carl’s home found guns, parts, ammunition, and Worster’s cannabis card.A grand jury indicted them for multiple violations.

Federal Appeal

The U.S. Attorney’s Office appealed to the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.They argue historical laws restricted gun ownership for habitual drug users.Temporary disarmament protects public safety, they claim.

Defense Counter

Worster’s lawyer, George J. West, supports McConnell’s ruling.The government failed to prove the law aligns with historical firearm regulations.No evidence shows Worster or Carl posed a danger due to cannabis use.Carl has not yet responded to the appeal.

ACLU Support

The ACLU of Rhode Island filed a brief on October 8.It backs Worster and Carl, arguing the law violates the Second Amendment.The ban applies to all cannabis users, regardless of danger.Six other federal appeals courts have ruled similarly.

ACLU’s Position

The government lacks evidence that cannabis use makes gun ownership dangerous.Barring gun ownership for lawful cannabis use is unfair, says ACLU’s Steven Brown.The ACLU has long fought cannabis criminalization and racial disparities in arrests.

Context

Cannabis remains illegal federally, despite Rhode Island’s legalization.Rhode Island legalized recreational cannabis in 2022, the 19th state to do so.The ACLU advocated for medical and recreational cannabis laws in the state.

Originally published by The Providence Journal.