Letter to the Editor: Patrol's fears not based on facts

May 29, 2003
Dayton Daily News

The Ohio State Highway Patrol has opposed numerous bills introduced in the General Assembly that would allow private citizens to carry concealed firearms, including firearms in motor vehicles.

The OSHP's stated reason is the fear that concealed-carry licensees will shoot officers during traffic stops. In an e-mail dated May 5, 2003, the OSHP stated: "... There is significant statistical evidence that carrying loaded firearms in motor vehicles is a catalyst for the loss of life; for both law enforcement and civilians."

The OSHP's fear is unfounded. Forty-three states issue licenses to private citizens to carry concealed firearms, including loaded firearms in motor vehicles.

Some 3.5 million such licenses are in force. To date, no peace officer in any state has ever been assaulted during a traffic stop by any licensee using a legally carried concealed firearm.

The OSHP must believe we Ohioans are a different and more violent breed of human than residents of the 43 states that have concealed-carry licensing.

Richard W. Martin
Fairborn

Click here to read the letter in the Dayton Daily News.

UPDATE! Click here to read the letter in the Columbus Dispatch.