NM sheriff demands special session over governor’s ‘unlawful’ gun ban.
An Albuquerque Sheriff Refuses to Enforce “Unconstitutional” Gun Ban
An Albuquerque, New Mexico, sheriff is taking a stand against an “unconstitutional” gun ban imposed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen is calling for a special legislative session to oppose the governor’s 30-day executive order, which blocks open and concealed carrying of firearms.
Protecting the Constitution
Sheriff Allen firmly believes that the temporary ban not only challenges the foundations of the Constitution but is also unconstitutional itself. He stated, “My oath was to protect the Constitution, and that is what I will do.”
Furthermore, Sheriff Allen shared a personal story that influenced his decision. His brother recently experienced gun violence, and Allen questions how he can tell his brother to put away his firearms and not be able to protect himself.
A Call for Unity
Despite their differences on the executive order, Sheriff Allen emphasized that he and the governor “work as a team.” He believes that a special session is necessary not only to address crime in Bernalillo County but also for the entire state of New Mexico.
Protests and Non-Enforcement
Over 100 people gathered at a public park in Old Town to protest the governor’s order. Many attendees openly carried guns and rifles to express their frustration peacefully.
Although the order went into effect immediately, local law enforcement, including the Albuquerque Police Department, does not appear to be enforcing fines for nonviolent offenders. The sheriff’s office confirmed that it would not enforce the order and reported that no fines were issued during the Sunday protest.
A Unified Stand
Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman, appointed by Governor Lujan Grisham, also expressed his refusal to enforce the order. He stated, “As an officer of the court, I cannot and will not enforce something that is clearly unconstitutional.”
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against the executive order, with the National Rifle Association and its New Mexico affiliate considering legal action seeking damages for those affected. Legal experts believe that the governor’s order may face challenges based on the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision regarding gun regulations.
Despite the expiration of the current order, experts suggest that the lawsuits may continue due to the potential for future gun violence and the governor’s ability to issue similar orders in the future.
As of now, a special session has not been scheduled, and the governor’s office has not responded to Sheriff Allen’s call for one.
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