Gun Rights Dispute: Lawsuit Filed Against U.S. Virgin Islands

Gun Owners of America and Gun Owners Foundation have initiated a legal battle against the government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and its police commissioner over Second Amendment rights. The organizations filed a lawsuit asking a federal judge to permit nonresidents to apply for concealed handgun licenses in the U.S. territory.

The lawsuit highlights the case of Sean Dale Henry, a Florida resident and member of Gun Owners of America. Henry attempted to contact the U.S. Virgin Islands police department several times to request a concealed carry license. The lawsuit claims that his calls went unanswered, emphasizing the importance of his need for self-defense.

Henry has been unable to get the USVI police to so much as pick up the telephone.

Government officials from the U.S. territory have not yet issued a comment on the situation.

Henry plans trips to the U.S. Virgin Islands soon and aims to carry a concealed weapon for self-protection. Luis Valdes, outreach director for Gun Owners of America in the region, stated, The Second Amendment doesn’t end at the shoreline. He argued that Americans should maintain their constitutional rights when visiting U.S. territories.

This case marks the second lawsuit against the U.S. Virgin Islands concerning Second Amendment rights. Previously, the U.S. Justice Department sued the territory for allegedly obstructing citizens’ rights to carry guns. They cited local laws that require applicants to show a credible need for a firearm, with endorsements from two trustworthy individuals.

The U.S. Virgin Islands defended its stance, asserting its commitment to both constitutional rights and public safety. In response to the Justice Department’s actions, the territory accused the U.S. government of hypocrisy. They claimed the government unduly limits citizens’ rights through its vast law enforcement network.

The initial lawsuit from December remains active in court.