Investigation referrals drop significantly despite increase in background checks and denials

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania State Police released their third-quarter 2025 firearms purchase denial statistics on November 10, revealing that 4,213 individuals were denied the ability to purchase firearms — a 14% increase from the same period last year, despite a dramatic drop in investigations referred to law enforcement.

The Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS), which processes background checks for firearms purchases and concealed carry licenses throughout the state, conducted 261,405 checks during the third quarter, up from 251,732 in Q3 2024.

Sharp Decline in Law Enforcement Referrals Raises Questions

While both background checks and denials increased year-over-year, the number of denial cases referred to law enforcement agencies for investigation plummeted by more than 50%. Only 910 cases were referred for investigation in Q3 2025, compared to 1,964 during the same period in 2024.

The breakdown shows decreases across all categories:

• State Police investigations: Down from 749 to 424 (43% decrease)
• Municipal police investigations: Down from 1,107 to 426 (61% decrease)
• ATF referrals: Down from 108 to 36 (67% decrease)

State Police did not provide an explanation for the significant reduction in investigation referrals despite the increase in denials.

Criminal Penalties for False Information

Under Pennsylvania law, individuals who provide false information on firearms purchase forms or present fraudulent identification commit a third-degree felony. The PICS system is designed to catch these violations and identify individuals with outstanding warrants.

During the third quarter, 22 individuals with active warrants were arrested at the point of purchase when attempting to buy firearms, down slightly from 29 arrests during Q3 2024.

Background Check System Overview

PICS is utilized by county sheriffs, police chiefs in first-class cities, and licensed firearms dealers across Pennsylvania to verify whether individuals can legally purchase firearms or obtain concealed carry permits. When the system identifies false information or disqualifying factors, it initiates an investigation and refers the case to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

The increase in background checks reflects continued strong firearms sales in Pennsylvania, while the rising denial rate suggests the system is identifying more prohibited purchasers attempting to acquire weapons illegally.

For more information about the Pennsylvania Instant Check System or firearms regulations, contact the Pennsylvania State Police at 717-783-5556.