Sheriff: I Won’t Enforce New Gun Control Laws

Jackson County Sheriff Denny Peyman said he doesn’t plan to enforce any new gun control laws that may come after President Obama’s announcement Wednesday.

The president announced plans for legislation that would ban assault weapons, among other things.

But Sheriff Peyman said he won’t follow it, citing the 2nd amendment in the Bill of Rights.

"I’m just a firm believer in what our community is asking for here, and they’re asking to keep their guns. And I’ve gotta respect that," said the first-term sheriff. "We need to keep the American people armed, not disarm them. If they’re being disarmed by the government, that’s really a grave injustice."

Peyman said it doesn’t matter what type of gun it is–whether handgun, hunting rifle, or assault weapon, he said it’s up to the person to decide what’s right for them.

The sheriff said he believes everyone is safer with a gun. He said, by oath, he is sworn to protect the constitution–including the 2nd amendment–and any new legislation won’t change that.