The Mobile County Sheriff is leading a statewide discussion to address Alabama’s permitless carry laws in order to combat youth crime.
In accordance with the existing legislation in Alabama, individuals who are 18 years old or above have the ability to carry a concealed handgun without the need for a state permit, provided they have undergone a background check.
Sheriff Paul Burch of Mobile County has urged state lawmakers to consider making changes to the law, specifically regarding concealed carry permits for individuals under the age of 21.
According to Burch, the increase in violent crime throughout Mobile County has been a cause for concern.
According to Burch, there have been 171 crimes involving a weapon committed by individuals under 20 years old in Mobile County since 2022. According to Burch, a significant number of those crimes were committed by individuals who were 17 years old or younger.
“According to Burch, there is a significant portion of individuals aged 18 to 20 who are involved in these criminal activities,” Burch stated. “The ages of these violent crime and violent offenders are quite concerning.”
In Alabama, it is currently against the law for individuals under the age of 18 to possess a handgun. Starting in 2023, individuals who legally possess a handgun will be able to carry it concealed without the need for a permit. Alabama became the 25th state to embrace constitutional carry, despite facing opposition from several county sheriffs who expressed concerns about potential revenue loss and safety issues.
According to Burch, individuals with criminal intent often manage to obtain firearms, even in situations where they are prohibited from doing so. Potential modification to existing state law could result in the arrest of individuals who fail to possess the necessary permit when it is mandated.
“By removing both the individuals and the weapons they use to commit crimes, we can make our streets safer,” Burch stated. Imagine you come across a car with four or five individuals inside. They acquired several firearms. They are currently not attending school. They are not present at their workplace. What on earth are they doing out there, riding around?
Burch clarified that this does not completely eliminate constitutional carry.
Burch has been primarily engaged in discussions with Rep. Shane Stringer, R-Citronelle, to make amendments to the existing law. The completion of the draft is expected by the end of the week.
