Crime

Lawful? Colo. Man Arrested for Carrying Gun Into Theater — But Claims He Has Valid Concealed Weapons Permit

James Mapes Arrested For Carrying Gun Into Cinebarre Movie Theater in Thorton, Colo.

James Mapes was arrested for carrying a holstered firearm in a movie theater (Thorton PD)

A man was arrested and nine theaters were evacuated after he carried a gun into the Cinebarre movie theater in Thorton, Colo., police said.

James Mapes, 48, of Northglenn was taken into custody Sunday after patrons reported he was carrying a handgun strapped to his waist. He was released after being cited and given a summons.

Mapes told the Denver Post he has a concealed weapons permit issued by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office in 2003. He said he has lived in the area for nine years and gone to movies at the Cinebarre theater dozens of times carrying a pistol openly and concealed.

“I was a threat to no one, I didn’t threaten anybody,” Mapes said.

Mapes was issued a citation for displaying a weapon and alarming another person after about 40 people were evacuated, Thornton police spokesman Matt Barnes said Monday.

(Related: ‘It’s My Gun’: Minn. Man Beaten, Arrested for Reportedly Carrying Handgun…Despite Having Concealed Carry Permit)

“We had people fleeing the theatres, with people yelling there was a man with a gun,” Barnes said.

Theaters across the country have been jittery after 12 people were killed and 58 others were wounded or injured at an Aurora movie theater on July 20 during a showing of the Batman film “The Dark Knight Rises.”

Colorado prosecutors filed formal charges Monday against James Holmes, a former neuroscience student accused in the theater attack.

Prosecutors were reviewing the case involving Mapes and the charges might be dropped if they determine he was complying with Colorado’s concealed carry law that allows people who pass background checks and get training to carry guns in most circumstances, Barnes said.

What was not made clear was whether Mapes was in possession of a valid concealed carry permit.

Mapes told the newspaper he was in a darkened theater for about 15 minutes viewing “The Watch,” when the lights came on and the show stopped. He said a woman sitting nearby took a cellphone call then said aloud that someone in the movie complex was seen carrying a gun.

KDVR in Denver actually talked to Mapes from behind his screen door on Monday and he maintained he has done nothing wrong. Watch the report below:

Calls made by TheBlaze to the Thorton Police Department to determine whether Mapes was in possession of a legal concealed carry permit at the time of his arrest were not returned in time for this report. Additionally, messages left with the Cinnebarre movie theater were not returned.

Yahoo News reports that Mapes was booked under Section 38-237(b)(1) of Thorton’s Municipal Code, which reads: “It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly possess on or about the person or within such person’s immediate reach any dangerous weapon.”

However, the following is later listed as an “exception,” which Yahoo left out:

A person issued a written permit to carry a concealed handgun issued by any sheriff authorized to issue such permits within the state and the carrying of such weapon is within the terms of such permit.

Further, according to Colorado state law, it’s not permitted to simply post “No Gun Signs” — such signs do not have the force of law. Further, there is seemingly no mention of movie theaters as areas where concealed handguns are prohibited.

More from the Colorado Legislature:

(1) (a) A permit to carry a concealed handgun authorizes the permittee to carry a concealed handgun in all areas of the state, except as specifically limited in this section. A permit does not authorize the permittee to use a handgun in a manner that would violate a provision of state law. A local government does not have authority to adopt or enforce an ordinance or resolution that would conflict with any provision of this part 2.

(b) A peace officer may temporarily disarm a permittee, incident to a lawful stop of the permittee. The peace officer shall return the handgun to the permittee prior to discharging the permittee from the scene.

(2) A permit issued pursuant to this part 2 does not authorize a person to carry a concealed handgun into a place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law. Page 18-senate bill 03-024

(3) A permit issued pursuant to this part 2 does not authorize a person to carry a concealed handgun onto the real property, or into any improvements erected thereon, of a public elementary, middle, junior high, or high school; except that:

(a) A permittee may have a handgun on the real property of the public school so long as the handgun remains in his or her vehicle and, if the permittee is not in the vehicle, the handgun is in a compartment within the vehicle and the vehicle is locked.

(b) A permittee who is employed or retained by contract by a school district as a school security officer may carry a concealed handgun onto the real property, or into any improvement erected thereon, of a public elementary, middle, junior high, or high school while the permittee is on duty.

(c) A permittee may carry a concealed handgun on undeveloped real property owned by a school district that is used for hunting or other shooting sports.

(4) A permit issued pursuant to this part 2 does not authorize a person to carry a concealed handgun into a public building at which:

(a) Security personnel and electronic weapons screening devices are permanently in place at each entrance to the building;

(b) Security personnel electronically screen each person who enters the building to determine whether the person is carrying a weapon of any kind; and (c) Security personnel require each person who is carrying a weapon of any kind to leave the weapon in possession of security personnel while the person is in the building.

(5) nothing in this part 2 shall be construed to limit, restrict, or prohibit in any manner the existing rights of a private property owner, private tenant, private employer, or private business entity.

Gun owners can also “open carry” in Colorado without a permit, so long as they do not enter areas or places where guns are prohibited by state or federal law or in Denver, which banned the open carry of handguns in 2006. Private business can also ban open carry. However, it is unclear if the theater had the proper signage.

“Basically, if it is not prohibited, it is allowed,” the Rocky Mountain Gun Owners site says. But it cautions: “Be very sure of where you can and cannot, as open carry can attract a great deal of attention.  You do not want to unintentionally have that attention drawn to you when you are mistakenly in a prohibited area.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Comments (220)

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  • HorseCrazy
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:55pm

    I live in an open carry state, WA, I never open carry I concealed carry. An officer friend told me anyone open carrying gets harassed by the cops period which later happened to my husband when he open carried. our state is full of whiny gun scared liberals so any officer sees your gun you are getting questioned. I conceal carry only. better to avoid the drama and harassment.

    Report Post »  
    • TheLeftMadeMeRight
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:48pm

      The same in Wisconsin except; a number of gun owners sued the state because of open carry harassment by law enforcement and WON. It is now illegal for any law officer to harass or charge you with disturbing the peace for legal open carry of a firearm.

      Report Post » TheLeftMadeMeRight  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:01pm

      Cops don’t make the laws. They are not allowed to make them up on the spot. I say sue the crap out of them. If it is legal, then it is legal. They are not the legislature. They are not the rulers of us peasants. If they don’t like open carry, tough crap. If they harass you, sue them.

      Report Post »  
    • yougottabekidding
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:12pm

      In Pa it is not legal for police to stop for just open carry.
      I have never bin stopped or questioned by the local PD if I’m not
      concealed.
      If there is any reason to have contact I just make sure they are aware
      I am carrying

      Report Post »  
    • mtcountrygrl
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:25pm

      What most people do not understand is in the old days it was considered “sneaky and suspicious” to carry a gun concealed. After all what are you hiding it for? So concealed gun laws went into effect. Now days if you openly carry a firearm people freak out. We need to get rid of concealed gun laws and allow people to be descreet with the firearms, so liberals don’t freak out and call the cops all the time. I always carry and would never open carry. People are just too jumpy. If anyone ever sees my gun, it will be a bad guy on business end. Otherwise no one is the wiser.

      Report Post »  
    • NOT A CRAZY
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:40pm

      Is there an “alarming another person” clause in Colorado statute?

      Report Post » NOT A CRAZY  
    • Shiroi Raion
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:42pm

      So, under Section 38-237(b)(1) of Thorton’s Municipal Code, which reads: “It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly possess on or about the person or within such person’s immediate reach any dangerous weapon,” a person could be arrested for using a screwdriver or a tire iron…

      Report Post » Shiroi Raion  
    • NOT A CRAZY
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:42pm

      BTW – typically a concealed carry permit does not apply to open carry. It sounds like he had to displaying his firearm in an open carry or at least he removed the concealing article and then the firearm was displayed. In either case, the open carry laws are the laws in question.

      Report Post » NOT A CRAZY  
    • jzs
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:43pm

      Now let’s look at the capitalist side of this: that of the owner of the theatre. Thanks to recent events, the theatre owner is going to be refunding lots of tickets if patron see someone walk in with a gun.

      I suppose everyone can agree the theatre owner has the right not to let this person in, whether his gun is legal or not. This gun toting guy would cause him to lose money. Who here will stand up for this job creator?

      Report Post » jzs  
    • IsThereADifference
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:25pm

      JZS It’s too bad these moronic people would make such a stink about this mans right to carry his gun. If this patriot had been in the theater the night that wack job went off he could have saved many lives. There are too many ignorant liberals who do not realize that criminals will still bring their guns into the theater if they want to. This is punishing a law abiding citizen who would be able to protect those same ignorant liberals who would otherwise be shot by a criminal.

      Stupid is as stupid does…

      Report Post » IsThereADifference  
    • soysauce
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:26pm

      Maybe police officers should be made to conceal carry so as not to offend or place a paranoid person in fear. As for JZS’s comment, all it takes it the proper signage in accordance with the law, or the owner of the theatre could simply train his employees to ask the patron to leave. Business that don‘t like the 2nd don’t have to have my business. How’s that for capitalism? Everyone still has their agency and freedom.

      Report Post »  
    • black9897
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:30pm

      This stuff makes me mad. Everyone is freaking out and being consumed by fear after what Holmes did. People need to mind their own business. Carrying a gun in a holster should not alarm anyone. He should not be charged with anything. I understand private company’s have the right to say no to guns. EVERY state needs to be an open carry state. That might offend someone? Give me a break. Unless you are paying for it; unless i’m violating your rights and or causing you damage or trying to then it should be legal and everyone needs to stay out of my business.

      Report Post » black9897  
    • Ballot_Box_Revolution
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:42pm

      I agree with JZS ….it is a rare occurrence, but it happens.

      The establishment owner should have the right to allow, or not allow guns into the establishment. However there is no LAW broken until the owner or managment asks the gun carrier to leave, and he refuses to do so. Then and only then should law enforcement get involved.

      And then even at that point, they should stick with the law that is being broken….Trespassing, disturbing the peace…whatever…there doesn’t need to be an “OMG a Gun” law…..

      Report Post » Ballot_Box_Revolution  
    • KellDav
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 6:05pm

      I live in Oly, Wa and open carry most everywhere. At this point, I have not been approached by any of the officers I have met in my goings about. I do conceal carry in some places but not every where and especially not during the summer when I wear shorts and t-shirts.
      What I have found ironic though is that when I open carry wearing “business casual” people are less likely to make comments about me carrying as opposed to when I wear my work clothes.

      Report Post »  
    • nzkiwi
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 6:28pm

      @ JZS

      After the recent multiple murder, if I was going to a US movie theatre with my children and I saw someone carrying a weapon, I would want to sit next to him.

      Report Post »  
    • ChuckJ
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 6:52pm

      Its not about cops bothering you. Why would you want a thug to know you are carrying a handgun. Its makes the criminal know your armed. Let it be a surprise. Battes can be won with surprise.

      Report Post »  
    • Spike143
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 7:56pm

      Agree when you open carry your drawing attention and asking for confrontation.
      No one needs to know you have a firearm period.

      Report Post » Spike143  
    • Tacitus42
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 8:33pm

      I live In Wa too I Open Carry all the time. as do many. Police can harass you but they have learned that if they do they will pay , as in taxpayers dollars. Many agencies have had to settle lawsuits with Open Carriers, as in monetary damages, and in training bulletins . Police in Wa State know not to harass Open carriers. Open carrying is a deterrent. Also Mapes was charged witha municipal code violation. Colorado stae law prempts it. Im sure someone will paying this man ie taxpayers of CO.
      opencarry.org Educate yourself… BTW never get legal advice from a police officer.

      Report Post » Tacitus42  
    • howardroark1165
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 8:42pm

      I work in Seattle and go home on the weekends where my wife and youngest son live. I have a Pistol Permit and both open and conceal carry daily. I have had no issues with the Police and have had numerous and friendly conversations with them while carrying openly.

      Report Post » howardroark1165  
    • Wolf
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 10:58pm

      Its called ‘conceaaled carry’ for a reason- so the ninnies don’t get their panties in a wad, which is obviously what happened here.

      Report Post »  
    • Marine 1
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 11:11pm

      If law abiding citizens were all authorized or mandated to carry concealed or open our nation would be much safer. Oh, we’re still going to have nut cases doing their thing with whatever weapon they can but they can be easily stopped by a well trained CWP holder.

      As for law enforcement, the recent theater fiasco is a prime example that the police will not be able to save you if someone starts shooting. They were late to the disaster. You have a right to live — arm yourselves! The PEOPLE can change things if they band together and demand change. Do it!

      If businesses don’t like you carrying in their stores, theaters, or whatever then spend your money elsewhere.

      Also, suggest that folks go through additional training like Frontsight or similar and really become an expert with your concealed weapon of choice. That training is excellent.

      Off to the range with my family. See ya!

      Semper Fidelis

      Report Post »  
    • hoosierblue
      Posted on August 1, 2012 at 7:24am

      Even if it is legal, common sense should tell you that you shouldn’t carry in the open in a setting like this and especially not after what just happened.

      Report Post »  
    • poorrichard09
      Posted on August 1, 2012 at 8:23am

      I’d say the guy was within his rights, and a theaters “house rule” does not carry force of law.
      Take ‘em to court and sue ’em, but dude, keep it CONCEALED.

      Report Post »  
    • Graycloud
      Posted on August 1, 2012 at 11:15am

      I understand your point, but it is your right and just maybe if the cops that stop people that open carry would be better trained in constitutional law they would be acting different. Fear of the unknown is a powerful tool. As an x cop I still think that people should be deputized after they receive their CCP. If you carry a gun and have a badge next to it people would be less likely to over react. This is just my opinion.

      Report Post » Graycloud  
    • The Jewish Avenger
      Posted on August 2, 2012 at 9:32am

      The fact that this is even on the Blaze shows that this has gone too far!!!

      So if a bus catches on fire, we can ban all buses right?
      If kids fall out of the car, we should just ban cars?

      Open carry is LEGAL (Except for Obamaville). An officer comes to inspect, the OC’r complies and then gets to go back to the theatre and sit right back next to the paranoid whistle blower if he chooses.

      This is stupid and outright makes me furious.
      This paranoia that the MSM has spread really is fitting their agenda very well…

      FYI: Regarding CC:
      States:
      Shall Issue to Residents Only:
      Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
      Shall Issue to Residents and Non-Residents:
      Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington
      May Issue to Residents Only:
      Alabama, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, District of Columbia
      May Issue to Residents and Non-Residents:
      Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York
      Right Denied:
      Illinois, American Samoa, N. Mariana Islands

      Report Post » The Jewish Avenger  
    • The Jewish Avenger
      Posted on August 2, 2012 at 9:41am

      Good site here by the way…

      http://www.opencarry.org/

      But he was in his legal right, some people freaked and in the end was harassed…

      After McVeigh people were paranoid about Ryder trucks parked near businesses….

      Difference is, libs WANT you to be paranoid of guns, once they’re gone, your fodder.

      Report Post » The Jewish Avenger  
  • Larry E
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:54pm

    Sounds to me like the man was unlawfully arrested and detained for doing that which he was legally permitted to do. Unless he was displaying his sidearm which in some jurisdictions is illegal (the gun is supposed to be and remain concealed at all times unless needed for defense). That’s the only way most people would know that he was carrying concealed.

    I sort of doubt that I’d go to a movie without a sidearm, just in case….

    Report Post »  
    • MangoT21
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:52pm

      If you read the article, you can see that he was open carrying.

      Report Post » MangoT21  
    • RoBoTech
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:58pm

      Open carry is LEGAL in all but Denver, CO.
      NO other town or city has banned open carry.
      So Thornton, which is NOT Denver, allows open carry. And it being a PUBLIC Facility (a theater) the Theater owners can NOT, by CO law, ban open carry.
      All you have to do is read the article.
      Personally, I have a CCW and never carry openly.
      ONLY to avoid harassment, as like it’s been mentioned here, in MOST places, LEO’s are required by law to investigate ANY complaint by a citizen involving firearms.
      However, once the person has been checked to see if there is a problem, then the LEO’s are to move on, and NO harassment.
      It never seems to work like that as a lot of LEOs just don’t like to have to do the work, in the 1st place.

      Report Post »  
    • Coded-Dude
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 6:12pm

      Looks like the law that he broke was local which should be preempted by state and federal law.

      Report Post » Coded-Dude  
  • makamae
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:50pm

    While it‘s clear this wasn’t a clever thing to do, in light of the Aurora shootings, it was perfectly legal. The Thorton PD owes him an apology and me be on the hook for a false arrest lawsuit.

    I have a concealed carry permit in Colorado & I go everywhere with my weapon concealed, as long as it’s legal to do so. I carry it concealed because I don’t see the sense in making other people scared or uncomfortable. It’s foolish. That said, anyone who thinks he should have been arrested, should lose his CCW permit, or thinks that regular citizens shouldn‘t be allowed to carry concealed weapons is either foolish or just hasn’t thought the issue through.

    Report Post » makamae  
    • Secret Squirrel
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:00pm

      .
      What do you mean? “It‘s clear it wasn’t a clever thing to do?”
      It’s not about clever, it’s about saving your life and the lives of others.
      People with legal guns are exactly what was needed in the
      Aurora shooting. It would have ended quickly.

      Report Post » Secret Squirrel  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:13pm

      What I mean was, given the current level of hysteria, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that someone will have a proverbial bovine if they see someone with a gun in a theater. The more prudent thing to do, that would have caused NO problems, would have been to legally carry the gun in a concealed fashion.

      Report Post » makamae  
    • Le Sellers
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:04pm

      Secret Squirrel sed:
      > People with legal guns are exactly what was needed in the
      > Aurora shooting. It would have ended quickly.

      It may not have ended “quickly” (although I believe it would have), but it certainly would have ended “differently”, by which I mean ten people would not be dead. Okeh, maybe only nine, because Holmes probably would have been terminated with extreme prejudice by one or more of the CCWs after he’d turned the theater into his personal shooting gallery. But ten INNOCENT people would not be dead, maybe eleven, and even twelve (because one of the dead was not yet born — so our idiotic laws in Colorado don’t recognize that baby as a person).

      CCW is not only a right, I believe it to be an obligation. Would that more felt so.

      Report Post » Le Sellers  
    • eagle2715
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:08pm

      So it makes more sense to placate idiots who are scared when they see a gun than to be prepared with a means of self defense?

      Report Post » eagle2715  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:20pm

      Eagle – you should read my post again. I didn’t say anything about NOT carrying – I said it probably wasn’t the wisest choice to carry openly, rather than concealed. I carry concealed everywhere I go, except the airport. I don’t go around trying to show off my gun or trying to intimidate people. As has been said elsewhere on this thread, it’s a better idea to keep the element of surprise in your favor.

      Squirrel – I can save just as many lives with my weapon concealed as I can carrying it openly. Probably more.

      Report Post » makamae  
    • Secret Squirrel
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:42pm

      .
      I’ll re=read the story, but I didn’t see where he was “open carrying”.
      He may have printed, and some citizen panicked for no reason..
      Maybe it would be better to educate the public
      (and cops) that armed citizens are good citizens.

      Report Post » Secret Squirrel  
    • txjb
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:44pm

      I understood your comment and had no problem with it . And I‘ve noticed comprehension isn’t popular with a lot of Blaze readers .

      Report Post »  
  • TXVET48
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:49pm

    To each his own. I prefer CCW.

    Report Post » TXVET48  
  • BeauJangles
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:43pm

    Fact, open carry is legal in the state of Colorado.

    Fact, A CHP is not required to open carry.

    Fact, We live in a republic where justice is based on law and not “feelings”.

    It doesn’t matter if he decided to OC the next day or two years after the Aurora tragedy. If people have a problem seeing a firearm in a holster that is their problem, not his. The theater over reacted and the police had no right to charge him. If I were him I would go after the PD after the charges get dropped.

    Report Post » BeauJangles  
    • AnonymousCitizen
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:56pm

      Thank you! Finally some true words about the facts in this case.

      Report Post »  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:57pm

      You’re absolutely correct. The police had no legal leg to stand on in this case. They need to publicly apologize. The movie theater needs to reimburse the cost of his movie ticket.

      However, I still think it wasn’t the brightest thing to do, given the Aurora shootings. There’s no rational reason to carry openly, if one has a concealed carry permit. That’s kind of the point.

      Report Post » makamae  
    • yougottabekidding
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:15pm

      I understand contact by PD on a complaint.
      No menacing or threats should have ended it with a friendly have
      a good day sir.
      If he had attitude it might have elongated the contact, but that’s
      it.

      Report Post »  
    • obamapoop
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:20pm

      How did people know he wasn’t a plain clothes officer?

      Report Post »  
    • booger71
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:46pm

      Facts in the case. The 2nd Amendment is an INDIVIDUAL RIGHT, just like the 1st, and cannot be infringed my any layer of government.

      Report Post » booger71  
    • vadale
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:02pm

      I hate to have to say this, but on this issue, we must make the governing officials pay dearly when they falsely arrest gun owners….They used to just clear things up and let you go. Now however, many prosecutors are anti-gun liberals. In my area, the cops are straight forward in their duty. The lawyers in the prosecutors office are very dishonest….I think these guys are similar.

      Report Post »  
    • eagle2715
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:13pm

      “There’s no rational reason to carry openly, if one has a concealed carry permit”

      1 – It’s much easier to draw a non concealed weapon than a concealed weapon, so if your legally able to open carry it is always a better idea.
      2 – Personally I would feel more comfortable watching someone walk in with an open carry. That way I know they have a gun and are far much less of a threat than someone wearing an overcoat in July who I have no idea what is under it…
      3 – Visually being armed is a deterrent to crime, as criminals will avoid someone who they see as armed.

      Report Post » eagle2715  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:24pm

      Eagle2715 said:
      “1 – It’s much easier to draw a non concealed weapon than a concealed weapon, so if your legally able to open carry it is always a better idea.
      2 – Personally I would feel more comfortable watching someone walk in with an open carry. That way I know they have a gun and are far much less of a threat than someone wearing an overcoat in July who I have no idea what is under it…
      3 – Visually being armed is a deterrent to crime, as criminals will avoid someone who they see as armed.”

      1 – If it’s easier for you to draw a non-concealed weapon than a concealed one, you must not practice much with a concealed weapon. I can get my concealed weapon out just as quickly.
      2 – Your opinion… that’s what makes this country great – we can disagree peacefully. Personally, I don‘t wear an overcoat unless it’s snowing and I’m wearing a suit. Most of the time I wear t-shirts that are adequate to cover my weapon.
      3 – Being visibly armed is a deterrent to crime where you are… they’ll just move on down the road and commit their crime somewhere else, where you aren’t. I’d just as soon be able to catch some dirt bag in the act & end their threat, without just moving them down the road a bit.

      Report Post » makamae  
    • AnonymousCitizen
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 11:01pm

      @makamae

      If I appear to criminals as a more hardened target and they move on down the road, good. Maybe more law abiding citizens should open carry to protect themselves and their loved ones.

      I have no interest in a concealed carry permit. When I carry, it must be open and honest or else I’m not legal. I have nothing against those who chose to hide their weapon legally, with a permit for such behavior, but I don’t think that they have they same deterrent effect.

      Report Post »  
  • rfycom
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:38pm

    How about we have two move theaters. One for concealed carriers, and one for people who do not. The theater without guns can have a metal detector and people can pat them down. Me, I’m taking my gun with me. Lean back into my space you piece of crap. Go ahead.

    Report Post »  
    • tajloc
      Posted on August 1, 2012 at 12:15pm

      That comment says it all. I would go to the gun carrying theatre. Owners have to think about that. Ya get your progressives in one theatre and folks watching safely “The Patriot.” That is what this whole argument is about. Freedom to choose. I wish those gun haters would have the guts to wear a button…”I hate gun nuts and refuse to carry a gun. If you need my cash or loved ones just ask. I will not allow my stuff to be protected by a gun carrying idiot.”
      I won’t go concealed carry. I don’t like all the info going to a cyber slot. If you don’t exercise a freedom then you will lose it. eg what would have happened in the Thorton theater if 50 or 100 folks just pulled their weapons when the police showed and said we all are in the same boat?
      Rom 8:28

      Report Post »  
  • sctbirdguy
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:38pm

    I disagree, Open Carry most definitely serves a purpose. It may very well discourage a violent act from taking place at all. Which is, in my opinion, way better than the element of surprise. I have a CCW from several states, but I hope to never have to use my weapon. An open carry may not stop an incident as in CO. because I believe people capable of that type of crime have already made their minds up as to their future actions regardless of any variable. However, it could very well stop a spur of the moment gas station robbery. This person may move on to an easier target. Same scenario for a mugging etc.

    Report Post »  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:15pm

      I don’t know… I like the idea of carrying concealed… someone may do something stupid near you, you can put a stop to it, and off to jail they go. If a prospective criminal sees someone carrying where they intend to commit a crime, they may just move down the road to commit their crime elsewhere.

      Report Post » makamae  
    • soysauce
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:38pm

      @ Makamae
      Every scenario or situation is at best subjective and speculative when debating open carry vs. concealed. The “What if?” questions don’t ever have a singular solution. I have both types of holsters and train for the use of everything I carry. I‘m happy that you’re carrying as well. My wife recently had a good experience open carrying into our bank. I’m so proud!

      Report Post »  
    • Gunnerrk004
      Posted on August 1, 2012 at 10:06am

      To me, open carry is a deterrent, potentially preventing a crime before it happens. It’s like strike first mentality without actually striking first. Concealed carry is only valuable as a response, so as a crime is being committed I have the opportunity to stop it. Problem is (and I am guilty as I Concealed Carry) that you cannot prevent a crime being concealed, you can you can react to it but not prevent it. However, if more people carried, then we as a country could start to prevent crimes with concealed or open carry. If criminals knew that there could be 5-6 people carrying, whether they see it or not, then a lot of crime would be stopped before it happens. Problem is there are not enough people carrying to put that fear into criminals minds.

      Report Post »  
  • normalmom
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:35pm

    The only thing about openly carrying is that someone may try to grab your gun if it is concealed it is less likely they would grab it. I worry about that and when I get my concealed and my husband I would rather not risk someone coming up behind me and try to grab.

    Report Post »  
    • BeauJangles
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:45pm

      I’ve open carried for years and not once has someone tried to grab my gun. It is an unjustified fear.

      Report Post » BeauJangles  
    • Rothbardian_in_the_Cleve
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:53pm

      @jangles,

      That’s great. But, you aren’t understanding the comment. First off you are a sample size of 1. Probably not statistically significant. Also, just because you “haven’t” doesn‘t mean that you aren’t at a higher risk going forward. Future risk isn’t connected to past results. For example, you flip a coin 99 times and get heads 99 times straight. The statistical probability of that is astronomical. But, what is the probability that the 100th flip is a “head”?

      Report Post » Rothbardian_in_the_Cleve  
    • yougottabekidding
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:54pm

      Normalmom
      If you are uncomfortable with open carry for any reason then CC
      The whole idea is to be comfortable with your self with the
      weapon

      Report Post »  
    • roseblood
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:30pm

      @ROTHBARDIAN
      Statistically, the probability of the 100th flip being heads is still 50/50. The previous 99 times have no reflection on the current toss.
      In my opinion, open carry mean you have a holster with an additional restraint; for example, mine requires pressure from the thumb and that it be draw forward, not backward. Two people have tried to take my pistol from behind, both training scenarios, and neither succeeded because of my holster and my reaction.
      Carrying a pistol is all about your comfort level. I open carry most times because it’s easier on my back, and doesn’t stretch out my pants. I conceal carry only when I have to.

      Report Post »  
  • conard3
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:34pm

    I live in Ohio now but used to live in Broomfield Co. In Ohio CCW permits are only good for 5 years. His permit is from 2003. That being said, open carry is permitted in Thornton (10-13 miles from Aurora btw). I think there are times when you want to open carry, but they are far out numbered by times when you really want to conceal. After what happened a few weeks ago… you want to conceal carry. The guy open carrying after what happened… just wanted attention. Most people don’t freak out over a gun, usually one person freaks out enough for all the other people combined. Ignorant people.

    Report Post »  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:11pm

      In this case, the validity of his permit isn’t even a question. He was carrying it openly and legally. If his permit is expired and he was carrying it concealed, then there would be a legal problem.

      Report Post » makamae  
  • progressiveslayer
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:27pm

    Every ‘gun law ’ passed since the second amendment is unconstitutional and cities that ban them are in violation of the constitution.If private business owners won‘t allow guns on their private property that’s perfectly legal as the article states.

    Nowhere in the second amendment does it state we need a permit to purchase and own a firearm and I defy anyone to prove otherwise.

    Report Post » progressiveslayer  
  • THX-1138
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:27pm

    Open carry ONLY works if everyone does it; all equal and out in the open.

    I conceal, licenced or not, legal or not, every place I go that doesn’t do a search. Period.
    Carried by 6 or judged by 12; I’ll take my chances with a jury…

    Report Post » THX-1138  
    • jcldwl
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:13pm

      I’m with ya on that. I never leave home with out it, or them depending where I am going. I find it funny when someone tells me they got their CCW but they never carry. Just a foolish thing to do. I guess it is too much trouble for them to adjust the way they dress to better conceal. Or they buy the biggest gun they can get and realize oops not really easily concealable.

      Report Post » jcldwl  
    • gosutag
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:18pm

      Exhibit A: Switzerland

      Report Post » gosutag  
  • Locked
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:25pm

    Huh.
    “Gun advocates say the movie theater where a Colorado gunman opened fire Friday, killing 12 and wounded 58, has a strict policy against firearms on its premises – even for patrons with concealed handgun permits.”
    http://www.wnd.com/2012/07/colorado-theater-called-gun-free-zone/

    Theater policy is you cannot carry a gun according to WND. It doesn’t have the force of law behind it (as The Blaze article says), but they can tell you to leave and call the police if you refuse to do so because at that point you’re causing an issue for all the other movie-goers. Same with no smoking or bringing in your own food.

    Report Post »  
    • Walkabout
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:42pm

      Since the liberals allow crazy people to walk the streets & try to frustrate or stop all steps to protect one’s self in public, it is time to boycott unsafe places like theaters.

      Since large flat screen TV came out, why go to the theater especially if they are expensive, dity & unsafe?

      Report Post »  
    • BenzinVasser
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:42pm

      It does not matter what the theater states if it is an unlawful request. They do not dictate laws.

      Report Post » BenzinVasser  
    • American Soldier (Separated)
      Posted on August 1, 2012 at 8:58am

      Just as restaurants can dictate no shirt no shoes no service, I agree that the business owner has the right to tell gun carriers to leave. Doesn’t have to have the law to dictate that, it’s a private propriety issue. Just like if I don’t want just anyone bringing a gun in my home; that’s my decision to make.

      Report Post » American Soldier (Separated)  
  • asmurff
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:09pm

    I’m a gun owner and have a concealed carry license. I regularly carry a pistol concealed when attending movies. However, Mapes’ conduct was improper, even if not illegal, if he wanted the pistol with him this soon after the Aurora shooting he shoot have properly concealed it.
    A responsible gun owner and responsible concealed carry permit holder would not have done so considering the recent events. Open carry may be the law but it isn’t always proper or prudent. The state of Colorado should suspend his permit.

    Report Post »  
    • RJL
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:13pm

      Come on man; where’s the common sense??

      Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:14pm

      If open carry is legal and he was harrassed, then he should sue. The law is the law is it not? If you don’t like open carry, move somewhere where they don’t allow it. Otherwise, shut up.

      Report Post »  
    • RANGER1965
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:21pm

      Exactly. I carry in theaters all the time. No one knows, and know one ever will, unless I need it. Just because I have the right to carry 45 stuck in my belt for all to see doesn’t make it wise, or prudent.

      Report Post » RANGER1965  
    • BeauJangles
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:21pm

      Really? You think his permit should be suspended because he was conducting himself in a lawful manner just because you don’t agree with his method of carry. Some of the worst enemies to the second amendment are gun owners like you. What he was doing was lawful. He has open carried into this establishment before. It has never been an issue before.

      Report Post » BeauJangles  
    • LetUsReason
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:28pm

      @ ASMURFF

      I can understand your logic, but we are at a point here where we are debating the spirit of the law vs. the letter of the law. While it is true that common sense would say, “Hey, this might not be a good time for packing heat (revealed) into a CO theater;” however, he was well within the law, and there was NO indication that he was a danger to those around him. This is a case of ignorance on the part of those who turned him in. I’m sorry, but wearing all black and a gas mask with an assortment of tactical weapons is MUCH different than holstering a 9mm next to your Levi’s. The police overreacted, as did the community.

      Report Post »  
    • Nepenthe
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:29pm

      No, his license should not be suspended. He should be ridiculed and shunned, though, for having absolutely no common sense what-so-ever.

      Report Post » Nepenthe  
    • AnOregonian
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:38pm

      ** Further, according to Colorado state law, it’s not permitted to simply post “No Gun Signs” — such signs do not have the force of law. Further, there is seemingly no mention of movie theaters as areas where concealed handguns are prohibited. **

      What about private property rights? While theaters indeed “open their doors ”to the public” they still reside on private property. Open carry can spook some people, which may impact business; hence many local theaters franchises are posted “gun free zones”. As well, it’s trespassing if not complying when asked to leave. I exercise my personal choice and avoid spending any money at establishments that post anti gun signs.

      Bottom line here is concealed means concealed, and he failed to meet that threshold. He would have had a better case had he OCed to begin with.

      Report Post » AnOregonian  
    • Rothbardian_in_the_Cleve
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:50pm

      Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. I wish open carry was accepted even when it’s legal. When I lived in OH, we had open carry. You were legally allowed to open carry a sidearm down the street. Of course, people will freak out and they will call the cops. The cops will arrest you and cite you for criminal menacing. You will have to go to court. You will hire a lawyer and go to court and you will win your case.

      I’d rather keep the 5K in expense and better use all that time. I’m just saying. It’s not right. I‘m not defending the system or the cops who arrest you knowing it’s not a crime. They are dirtbags as are the DA’s. BUT…you have to pick your battles people. We’re going to get to fight this out someday. It’s going to happen. The state continues to grow. Dependency continues to grow. Rights continue to erode. There will come a time when you will not only open carry, but you will likely have to pull that trigger. But not now. And not over something like this. Conceal it and move on with life. You‘ll know when it’s time.

      Report Post » Rothbardian_in_the_Cleve  
    • phillipwgirard
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:47pm

      @RJL, common sense is gone, very few display it any more, it’s very depressing for me as I deal with the public every day, people that have no common sense make my eyes bleed,,,

      Report Post » phillipwgirard  
    • neither1
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:59pm

      Right on! What kind of level headed, community minded person, would have walked into a CO. movie theatre with a weapon on his hip given the recent events? He may have been within in his rights, it may have been legal, it may have been lawful but it wasn’t the decent thing to do. If he had a concealed carry permit, then he should of concealed the weapon. This was all about him and whatever self righteous message he was trying to send. Congratulations, you caused a panic of old women, moms and dads and children. Bravo.

      Report Post »  
  • cantstandlibs
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:07pm

    I bet you he never gets his weapon back! Remember Katrina and all the great weapons dutifully checked in to the gov’t by edict? They were never returned.

    Report Post »  
  • BeingThere
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:07pm

    OMG, a gun!!!!! Help Help!!! Stupid motherfrakers, after what happened they should be glad the guy brought his gun!!! ALL gun laws are unconstitutional!!!!!!

    Report Post » BeingThere  
    • somecallmeMC
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:39pm

      It is all part of Eric Holder’s idea of brainwashing, attack the second amendment on the legal front. demonize guns/owners on the public front.

      Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:50pm

      Well, he was dressed like The Penguin.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
  • RANGER1965
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:06pm

    I’m getting a feeling that this guy was showing off a little.

    If he had a legal and current concealed carry permit, then it doesn’t matter what the theater thinks, or what signs they have in place. The arrest wasn’t valid.

    BUT….

    Most people who have a concealed carry permit CONCEAL! their weapons. We do it for alot of reasons:
    (1) Idiots who don’t know better and fear guns, like to call the cops. The cops will respond, and waste a whole lot of your time, and create much commotion and embarrassment.
    (2) Idiots who DO know better, hate guns, and hate you, like to call the cops. (See above)
    (3) Idiots who DO know better, wanna see your gun, handle it, talk about it, wave it around, and waste a whole lot of your time.
    (4) Lastly, if their really is a bad guy in the crowd you’ve just given away your most powerful asset: surprise.

    Even more, you have to be an absolute MORON! to not realize that people in general (myself included) will be a little more spooked about going into a theater considering there are usually a few copy cat incidents after a massacre like this.

    The guy might have been completely in his rights, but I question his wisdom.

    RANGER

    Report Post » RANGER1965  
    • BeauJangles
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:14pm

      I open carry and have done so for years. Not once have I had the police called on my or been harassed by the police.

      Report Post » BeauJangles  
    • makamae
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:15pm

      Beaujangles – well, obviously it’s something that DOES happen. I guess it comes down to logic, how much time you want to waste in the scenarios presented by Ranger1965, and whether or not you want to make a bunch of people nervous in a venue where something horrible just happened.

      I have a right to free speech, but that doesn’t make it a good idea to use that right without some thought about my intended audience.

      Just a thought…

      Report Post » makamae  
    • roseblood
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:43pm

      @ Ranger
      The permit to conceal does just what it says: it permits you to conceal your firearm; it is not a requirement. I’ve had a concealed weapons permit for many years, and I still open carry because it’s easier for me.
      I won’t debate any of your points except your last one. Surprise is not your most powerful asset. To surprise a bad guy means that you have given him the chance to commit the crime. Deterrent is a better tool; which is why police departments have obviously marked police cars that patrol the cities, why stores have visible anti-theft devices and cameras, why security guards where boldly stated shirts or uniforms, etc.
      A bad guy, not a crazy guy, will reconsider his plans if he sees obvious signs of deterrents in the way of his goal.
      This guy may have been within his rights, just as you and I are within our rights… but MANY others would question our wisdom to carry firearms at all.

      Report Post »  
  • CJ_94
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:00pm

    Currently, it’s just too sensitive an issue for anyone to be carrying in the open. There are too many ninnies out there who panic at the sight of a weapon, and especially in a theater of all places. People are really jumpy already; there’s really no need to stir the pot.

    Either way, he’s definitely an idiot: if he does have a CCW permit, he did a really bad job at it and he should probably have it revoked. If he doesn’t, even though open carry is legal, he should have been way more sensitive to the feelings of the ninnies around him and should have left his gun in the car for now.

    Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:12pm

      What a load of BS. So, even if something is legal, he is an idiot for wanting the option of defending himself. Either the law is what is says or it is not. This is classic police harrassment. I feel for the people killed, but that does not negate mine or anybody else’s right to carry. They chose to take their chances and go unarmed. That is not my or any other permit carrier’s problem. Sorry.

      Report Post »  
    • normalmom
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:28pm

      No he should not have had to leave it in his car, but should have had it hidden and not seen by all. If someone had had a gun in the theater when the shooting happened less people would have died. Keep it somewhat hidden so 1. no one grabs it 2. no one freaks out 3. they don’t freak out and call the cops on you. Also did he have his permit on him?

      Report Post »  
    • DSTSS2010
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:30pm

      “Mapes was issued a citation for displaying a weapon and alarming another person”. If there is a law agains alarming another person, we’re all screwed. That would make me a criminal every time I walk my pitbull (he’s as vicious as a bunny).

      Report Post » DSTSS2010  
    • LetUsReason
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:35pm

      @ MIL-DOT

      You win the debate.

      Report Post »  
    • AnonymousCitizen
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:55pm

      If more law abiding citizens open carried, tragedies like the Aurora shooting could have been minimized.

      Report Post »  
  • billrow
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:58pm

    Permits are nonsense. Felons don’t go get a permit before they stick a gun in their waistband!
    Will any law permit or regulation stop a criminal, lunatic or other creep from getting his paws on a gun? The only way to stop criminals with guns is armed citizens, jail cells and execution.

    Just like Vermont and Alaska and Arizona, people should be allowed to carry without these onerous rules, fees and stipulations.

    Report Post »  
  • rr98411
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:54pm

    Anybody knows what the T-Shirt he is wearing in the photo says. It appears the first word is ‘Liberalism”

    Liberalism what…? Anybody know..

    Oh yeah, Vermont and Arizona got the carry of firearms right.

    Report Post »  
    • Blazebanned
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:12pm

      @RR98411.
      My guess is, “liberalism is a mental disorder”, and based on that, is the reason the cops were called on this guy, and the fact either someone knew he carried, or saw the gun, either way, if he had a permit, and was not restricted by law in carring in the theater,amd just showing a pistol with a slash through it,does not constitute legal signage, the cops had nop reason to arrest him.

      Report Post »  
    • BHOMustFail
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:15pm

      Probably;

      Liberalism is a Mental Disorder

      Which of course is an astute and accurate observation & statement.

      Report Post » BHOMustFail  
    • BeauJangles
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:24pm

      The t-shirt read;
      Front: Liberalism Breeds Terrorism
      Back: Terrorism Breeds Liberalism

      Report Post » BeauJangles  
    • stuharnden
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 10:49pm

      You left out Wyoming

      Report Post »  
  • crypticguise
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:50pm

    Once again, jackasses in charge. Police don’t know the law of the jurisdiction/s they service. Pathetic. How about publishing the law in Colorado so the average liberal jackass knows that concealed and/or open carry is permitted.

    Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:07pm

      Cops are under strict orders to harrass in any way they can legal gun permit holders who have the gaul to carry concealed. They are told by their Chiefs that they are to hassle these folks. They do not like ordinary citizens carrying guns. They want to be the only ones allowed to shoot anybody in self defense. This crap has been going on for years and years.

      Report Post »  
    • Greg61
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:58pm

      Mil-Dot, it’s that unfounded generalizations that make you lose arguments. Cops are not told to harass CCW holders that carry. In fact, my Son, a cop (and SGT) in a large city, likes the CCW. It tells him, he’s pretty safe with this individual. He’s fully aware of the background checks and the very, very, very, very low rate of CCW holders who break the law. Stop generalizing and keep to the facts, you’ll win everytime.

      Report Post »  
  • Thordomr
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:40pm

    Until gun laws are removed and the constitutional right is encouraged, the stigma of someone with a gun will continue to be negative. This will only change when more people start to carry weapons and the citizens resolve shootings like the one in Colorado, quickly with minimal loss of life. Not everyone will agree but rational people will remember the shootings that were unimpeded and conclude the ones stopped by citizens saved lives.

    Report Post »  
    • 000degrees
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:20pm

      The Bill of Rights should never be subject to “if”. That being said concealed works the best for me. I have what I need and all of those faint of heart that wait for others to be responsible for them are non the wiser. In Indiana most people know there are responsible citizens around in public that carry so I believe that is a consideration for those that would do harm. Oh….by the way, the three times I’ve been in a theater in the last 15-20 years I was carrying. It all worked out fine.

      Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:23pm

      The media will never report on a shooting where a CCW guy saved folks from a psycho. It does not fit their narrative. You will NEVER hear about it.

      Report Post »  
    • Thordomr
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 3:35pm

      I agree Mil-dot. Maybe we could encourage those who were involved or know of those incidences to report them to alternative media’s attention so that they are reported and recorded so it would be easier to find them. I know for some “don’t try to disprove my beliefs with facts” but with the fences straddlers it could make all the difference in the world.

      Report Post »  
    • bumfuzeled
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 4:15pm

      oddly enough, after 9/11 all my friends from the northeast called and asked if could/would buy them guns because they suddenly felt threatened. They suddenly understood why as a Texan, believed in self defense. They realized they were in a world full of evil and lost their liberal views. It only lasted a couple of years, sadly they are now back to their socialistic ways.

      Report Post » bumfuzeled  
  • delawarebill
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:38pm

    The whole point of having a concealed carry permit is the “concealed” part… If he was seen with the gun, he failed miserably.

    Report Post » delawarebill  
    • Le Sellers
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:44pm

      Open carry is legal in Colorado (except in the Peoples’ Republic of Denver). Even if he was not “permittee” (Why must we beg our government to exercise our individual right. We don’t for freedom of speech, yet, anyway), since his weapon was visible, he was still legal.

      Report Post » Le Sellers  
    • delawarebill
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:00pm

      Agreed Mr Sellers, however if no one knew that he was carrying, it would have saved him a whole lot of hassle. In the wake of recent events, I’d be carrying also – however, I would make sure that it was done under the rules of my CCW Permit to avoid scaring anyone.

      Report Post » delawarebill  
    • Coyote6
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:19pm

      Did you read the article, Dummy? Colorado is like Minnesota in that it has an “open carry” law. There IS No requirement to conceal your weapon. The devil is in the details.

      Report Post » Coyote6  
  • thegreatcarnac
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:35pm

    Let the guy go. He is legal. If he had been in the theater when the idiot began shooting….many people would be alive today.

    Report Post »  
  • Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:35pm

    I carry all the time and have a Conceal Carry permit, my neighbor, who is a detective for Colorado Springs, has told me as long as it isn’t in a Federal/City/County building, school, or if there is a sign clearly prohibiting, you are allowed to carry. But if a owner of a facility asks you to not bring a gun into their establishment, it is just polite to obey their wishes.

    Personally, I try to keep my weapon hidden, and prefer no one knows I have one. Hence, coneal carry. If someone isn’t comfortable with a weapon around, it is no problem for me to either leave, or go put it in the car.

    Report Post » Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra  
    • Damocles
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:44pm

      Well said!

      Is arms OPEN WIDE

      Report Post » Damocles  
    • Le Sellers
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:50pm

      It would be far better simply to avoid going into such a place.

      I am committed to keeping my patronage limited to businesses that recognize my right to protect myself with a firearm. When I make a restaurant reservation, I ask if they restrict guns. If so, I cancel the reservation. It would be the same at a barber shop, a theater, a school, or a legal office: no gun, no client (at least not this one).

      If the 100 million of us who own and carry weapons were all to do this, there would be no Aurora Theater Massacre, Répris. Even a nutcase like Holmes would recognize that he’d only get three shots off before his shooting gallery experience would be terminated (probably with “extreme prejudice”).

      Report Post » Le Sellers  
    • Landon410
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:59pm

      as the article said, even if they has a sign on their door that says no guns, that is in no way any type of leegal obligation to obey, however they obviously can ask you to leave their building

      but wouldn’t have be the same as “descriminating” against gay people?

      Report Post »  
    • JustJ
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:10pm

      I couldn’t agree more. I’m a Pueblo resident with a concealed carry permit, and when I carry I don‘t want anyone to know I’m carrying. Isn’t that the point of “concealed” carry? The story says his permit was issued in 2003, and you have to renew it every 5 years here in Colorado, so I guess the only question the officers should have is if he renewed it. If he did, he was well within his rights and there should be no issue. Personally, after what happened in Aurora, it‘s very unlikely that I WON’T be carrying when I go to the movies… Or virtually anywhere else for that matter.

      Report Post »  
  • sWampy
    Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:26pm

    Open carry should legal every where, concealed, only by cops.

    Report Post »  
    • Jupitor
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:39pm

      Actually, as a Texas CHL holder, I disagree.

      Open Carry should be legal every where. Concealed should still require a permit.

      Report Post » Jupitor  
    • KeystoneState
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:39pm

      It doesn’t matter what you “think”, try reading the 2nd amendment again.

      Report Post » KeystoneState  
    • Le Sellers
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:41pm

      Nonsense.

      Concealed Carry allows people who are idiotically afraid of weapons to be in the vicinity of an armed person without freaking out (as the report tells us happened in the Thornton theaters: “We had people fleeing the theatres, with people yelling there was a man with a gun,” Barnes said. Idiots one and all).

      People should be much more afraid of the cops than of a gun. Cops have the legal authority to kill you. No private person does (unless you compel him to act in self defense).

      Guns do nothing on their own but rust. Everyone should be armed (excluding felons and the insane; oh, and Democrats).

      Report Post » Le Sellers  
    • DouglassFiller
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:41pm

      Conceal carry is (in my opinion) remaining sensitive to people who panic at the sight of firearms – like the woman in the theater. Also, open carry makes you a target for theft (in your home – when you are not there), because you carry something of value. It’s far better for the public to be aloof than afraid.

      Report Post » DouglassFiller  
    • fbgeek1
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:43pm

      Wrong…Everyone should have right to conceal carry AND open carry.

      Report Post »  
    • Constructionist
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 1:44pm

      I disagree. For personal protection, sometimes your greatest advantage is the fact that the bad guy DOES NOT KNOW you have a weapon until it’s too late. Advertising that fact puts you at a disadvantage and can actually make you a target when you would not have otherwise been one.

      It the nutjob in the Colorado shooting had seen several people in line at the movie theater open carrying firearms, they would have been the first people he targeted, to remove the threat.

      Additionally, open carry WILL cause you unwanted attention from the police, and likely cause unnecessary angst to those around you, regardless of how legal it might be in your jurisdiction. I could open carry if I so chose, I just find it counter-productive.

      Report Post » Constructionist  
    • BHOMustFail
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:17pm

      Completely disagree….Open Carry serves no purpose…Concealed carry keeps the low-life guessing.

      Report Post » BHOMustFail  
    • Calimann83
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 2:29pm

      That’s silly. do you think criminals will not carry hidden weapons if it is against the law? anti-concealed carry laws are illogical, they only prevent law abiding citizens from carrying concealed weapons.

      Report Post » Calimann83  
    • roseblood
      Posted on July 31, 2012 at 5:00pm

      @ BHOMUSTFAIL
      Completely disagree… open carry serves every purpose concealed carry does… open carry tells the low-lifes they are risking their lives if they try something.

      Report Post »  
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