Can The Officer DEMAND To See Your Carry Permit?

Published on February 20, 2023
Duration: 7:25

This video discusses whether law enforcement can demand to see a concealed carry permit solely based on 'printing' or knowledge of a firearm. Criminal defense attorney Tom Grieve explains that officers generally need reasonable suspicion of a crime. While some states require permits for concealed carry, simply seeing a firearm or printing may not automatically constitute probable cause for a stop and demand for a permit, especially in constitutional carry states. The discussion also touches on officer safety rationales and the limited recourse for individuals who are unlawfully detained.

Quick Summary

Police officers generally need reasonable suspicion of a crime to demand your concealed carry permit. Simply seeing your gun 'printing' (its outline visible) may not be sufficient grounds, particularly in constitutional carry states, though it can lead to investigation to ensure legal compliance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Can Police Demand Your Carry Permit?
  2. 00:13Gun Giveaway Announcement
  3. 00:25The Core Question: Demand for Permit?
  4. 00:37Law Enforcement Perspective: Reasonable Suspicion
  5. 01:00What is 'Printing'?
  6. 01:13Argument for Demanding Permit (Non-Constitutional Carry)
  7. 01:36Reasonable Suspicion vs. Probable Cause
  8. 02:01Officer Safety Rationale
  9. 02:39The 'Illegal Until Proven Otherwise' Mindset
  10. 03:27Recourse When Detained
  11. 03:56Challenges of Suing the Government
  12. 04:45Law Enforcement's Past Practices
  13. 05:04Wisconsin Specifics on Carry Permits
  14. 05:17Carrying a Gun Alone is Not Disorderly Conduct
  15. 05:34Addressing Concealment Issues (Printing)
  16. 06:30System Review for Concealed Carry
  17. 07:12Next Video: Round in Chamber?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a police officer demand to see my concealed carry permit if they see my gun printing?

Generally, an officer needs reasonable suspicion of a crime. Simply seeing your gun printing may not be enough, especially in constitutional carry states. However, in states requiring a permit, observing concealed carry could be grounds for investigation to ensure compliance with the law.

What is 'printing' in the context of concealed carry?

Printing refers to the outline or shape of a concealed firearm becoming visible through clothing. It indicates that the firearm is not fully concealed, potentially drawing attention and leading to law enforcement interaction.

What legal basis might an officer use to demand a concealed carry permit?

An officer might cite reasonable suspicion of a crime, such as carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in a non-constitutional carry state. Officer safety concerns can also be a factor in initiating contact and investigation.

What are the potential issues if a police officer stops me for concealed carry printing?

You might be detained for investigation, potentially disrupting your activities. While you can file complaints, legal recourse for unlawful stops can be challenging unless significant civil rights violations or harm occurred.

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