History of arrest and firearm ownership among low-income US military Veterans

Abstract: Introduction: The United States has the highest per capita firearm ownership rate globally, with military veterans representing a unique subgroup due to their combat training and increased risk for firearm-related suicide. While prior research has examined various factors contributing to firearm ownership among veterans, the relationship between involvement in the criminal justice system and firearm ownership remains understudied. This study aims to investigate the connection between prior arrests and firearm ownership in a national sample of low-income U.S. veterans. Methods: Data were drawn from the National Veteran Homeless and Other Poverty Experiences (NV-HOPE) survey, funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The sample consisted of adults aged 18 and older who had served on active duty and lived in households under 300% of the federal poverty level. The analysis focused on firearm ownership and arrest history, with a total of 1,028 survey respondents. Results: Among the sample, 8.7% reported personal firearm ownership and 10.7% had a history of arrest. Veterans with prior arrests were found to be 21% more likely to own a firearm, independent of other covariates. Discussion: This study reveals a significant association between prior arrest history and personal firearm ownership among U.S. military veterans. These findings suggest that veterans with criminal justice involvement are more likely to possess firearms, highlighting an important consideration for suicide prevention strategies. The results underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health and firearm access in the veteran population, particularly those with a history of arrest.