Wow. Check this out. An Illinois prosecutor willing to publicly say “I won’t prosecute” a law-abiding person carrying a concealed firearm for self-defense.
There are a number of prosecutors in central and southern Illinois who feel the same way, but most won’t publicize it.
Kudos to Tom Gibbons.
EDWARDSVILLE (Telegraph) – Madison County’s top prosecutor says citizens may lawfully carry concealed firearms “under very narrow limits,” in the wake of a court ruling that soon makes Illinois an “unrestricted” state.
State’s Attorney Thomas Gibbons issued a May 28 opinion for local police agencies, but amplified it on Thursday amid mounting questions from residents and gun owners.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by phone calls, and they are 99 percent positive from the public,” he said, referring to the ruling.
He said a citizen can carry a weapon lawfully and will not be prosecuted by his office if they meet seven qualifications, among them possessing a valid Firearms Owner Identification Card; carrying a fire
arm for self-defense; and keeping a firearm concealed on their person or in a vehicle.
Here are the conditions:
Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Gibbons recently issued this memo regarding when citizens may carry a concealed, loaded firearm “on their person or in a vehicle.”
People must meet these conditions:
1. Must be issued and possess a valid F.O.I.D. card or, if not an Illinois resident, a valid concealed carry permit from a state that performs a background check prior to issuance of the permit; and
2. Must be carrying the firearm for self-defense; and
3. Must not be prohibited from possession of a firearm under another statute or court order; and
4. Must keep the firearm concealed on their person or in their vehicle, and not visible to the public; and
5. Must not be engaged in any criminal conduct; and
6. Must be in compliance with all other federal, state and local laws and ordinances; and
7. Must, when asked, inform law enforcement officers of the firearm when in contact with an officer in the course of their duties. It is essential that individuals cooperate with any police officer and inform them of the presence of the firearm prior to removing it from its concealed location. Displaying the firearm at a public location or without the request or knowledge of an officer could constitute a violation of the law.
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