TimesLeader.com

Special Offer: $2.00/week Home Delivery

Pringle Hill said...

What kind of malarkey is this? What right does DeLeo have to revoke Hain's permit? How does he have the right to deem her a menance to public safety?

September 25, 2008 at 7:37 AM

Taxpayer said...

Aren't there rules at youth parks that prohibit firearms? I have a concealed permit, but I would never carry at a youth soccer game. I would leave it in my vehicle.

September 25, 2008 at 8:15 AM

danny dowlud said...

You have a constitutional right to burn the flag, an act that will surely upset people. Therefore, you surely have a constitutional right to peacefully bear arms, even if some people object to that right.

September 25, 2008 at 8:55 AM

Rob said...

I think the sheriff was wrong in revoking her permit just because some people didn't like it. He doesn't have a legal reason to do so and should be sued. The woman should have used better judgment though and kept it concealed. There's no reason to brandish it.

September 25, 2008 at 9:06 AM

david kiurtz said...

Having a concealed permit means just that, otherwise, carrying it openly will cause a revocation. Meleanie, Contact the NRA if you're a member to get this sorted out.

September 25, 2008 at 9:10 AM

TJ said...

Having/carrying a gun for protection is one thing, but Miss "Annie Oakley" shouldn't have carried openly to her childs soccer game. What, is she lacking attention?

September 25, 2008 at 11:17 AM

Chas said...

So, by revoking her concealed-weapons permit it in no way changes anything..? The sheriff deemed her a danger to public safety based on her character and reputation but can't stop her from wearing her gun in plain site? I still don't see what she did wrong. So, she carries a handgun. Was she waving it at the kids or parents? Was she threatening anyone? Sheriff Michael DeLeo doesn't seem like the brightest of individuals.

September 25, 2008 at 11:44 AM

AJ said...

She had a permit to have the gun on her person and the Sheriff's offic calls this poor judgment for wearing her gun and then revokes her permit? This is ridiculous. Drive through Lebanon...I grew up there...and you can see that you need protection. Just today reports are in that a Lebanon man had a dead woman't body in his car. Lebanon is turning into a safe haven for drug dealers, traffickers, gang-bangers and the like. People like me have gotten out of there but there are many who don't have the resources to leave. This is ridiculous and it just seems that her rights are being trampled on!!!

September 25, 2008 at 1:15 PM

Pat S. said...

If I were Melanie I would not only fight the revocation, but sue them for violating my rights. Go out to Arizona or New Mexico and tell those people they don't have the right to openly carry a fire arm, especially when you have a permit to carry it. Why isn't the ACLU looking into this?

September 25, 2008 at 1:26 PM

justsayit said...

Obviously this woman can't read. It's a CONCEALED weapon permit. So CONCEAL it. Oh well. Maybe she can become a hockey mom and shoot some moose.

September 25, 2008 at 2:14 PM

Manger said...

So the action against her for open carry now FORCES her to open carry. Brilliant move there, sheriff.

September 25, 2008 at 2:18 PM

Jeremy S said...

Sheriff Michael DeLeo is a clown. How is Ms. Hain a "a danger to public safety based on their character and reputation"? She is at her kids soccer game, not hosting a alcohol party, heroin user, or renting a crack house. She is a soccer mom, exercising her 2nd Amendment right. I hope this joke of a Sheriff is voted out of office and is sued for violating Ms. Hain's rights.

September 25, 2008 at 2:40 PM

SF said...

Sounds like a good reason to bring a suit against the sheriff for the unlawful action. An "upset parent" isn't sufficient reason to declare that someone is "a danger to public safety".

September 25, 2008 at 2:45 PM

Captain Obvious said...

Carrying openly makes you a target for criminals and idiots who have no concept of reality. Keep the gun hidden, it avoids attention and keeps the uninformed placated. Wearing it openly is most likely an attempt to make people uncomfortable and rude, much like people who prostletise in public or couples that round the bases in plain view of everyone.

September 25, 2008 at 2:49 PM

Jim g said...

I hope they like seeing it out in the open now. And she continues to wear it. Those other parents are idiots. Dont back down.

September 25, 2008 at 2:50 PM

Ammar said...

This is in complete disregard for her rights. She should contact the NRA for legal support.

September 25, 2008 at 2:55 PM

David Kveragas said...

So how does carrying open impact her character or reputation? The term is legally menat to refer to someone who has a history of violence, drunkeness, drug use, etc. Run a background check, again as she had one to be issued the permit, and see if she has had any legitimate complaints filed against her. Otherwise she has every right to file a civil rights lawsuit against the county.

September 25, 2008 at 3:02 PM

Bryan Miller said...

Good for her, I hope she beats the sheriff and get's get CCW back. the sheriff is not capable of understanding rights and laws and shouldn't be revoking anything unless necessary. ooooh, a gun, they were probably a travel team from NJ, and the moms think that guns have their own mind and just jump out and pull their own trigger.

September 25, 2008 at 3:03 PM

Buzz said...

So because she didn't keep it concealed 100% of the time, she can't conceal it at all. Makes sense as far as the law goes, but I doubt this is what the parents who complained where hoping for.

September 25, 2008 at 3:03 PM

Kelly said...

All I can wonder is how many times has she used it? ... Hmmm thought so. Well atleast if she is ever threatened by a misguided soccer ball she'll be safe. Not too sure about the ref though.

September 25, 2008 at 3:06 PM

Nick said...

I hope she takes them to court over this. Suspending someone's constitutional rights because other people are upset at that person fro exercising their rights is not following the letter or intent of the law. DeLeo couldn't legally confiscate her gun because she had done nothing wrong. Go figure.

September 25, 2008 at 3:11 PM

Matt said...

I still don;t understand what part of the second amendment people can't understand!!! The right of a person to bear arms...shall not be infringed! Give her back her permit, and fire the sheriff! The danger to society clause does not apply here.

September 25, 2008 at 3:13 PM

Pendleton Harber said...

I thought the main threat of violence at these games came from drunken dads who fight with their fists, not from people who lawfully carry their firearms.

September 25, 2008 at 3:23 PM

Nighthawk said...

So, they issue conceal and carry permits but don't let people carry. Not very efficient government.

September 25, 2008 at 3:32 PM

John said...

PA is an open carry state but this dingbat should have been using what little common sense she has. SHE HAD A CONCEALED WEAPONS PERMIT!!!!! KEEP IT CONCEALED AT THE SOCCER GAME!!! Most soccer moms and dads are "uptight liberals" and scared of firearms. I don't think her permit should have been revoked by the sheriff however.

September 25, 2008 at 3:34 PM

Jay said...

Yet another instance of someone doing NOTHING wrong and being penalized for it. God Bless Amerikkkkka.

September 25, 2008 at 3:35 PM

John Birster said...

This isn't the full story. The person who filed the complaint was Former District Judge Nigel Foundling, who serves as director of the Lebanon Recreation Youth Soccer Program. PA Open Carry Law: You do not need a permit to open carry as long as it's in plain sight. She has not threatened or intentionally intimidated anyone. PA legislation to ban firearms on PA public parks failed and did not become law. This is just another battle between gun owners and anti-gunners. Whether you are for, or against guns, the Law is LAW. She's innocent of the charges and she will with her court case. Most lunatic gunman choose random shootings at events with large crowds where people are having a good time and it goes to show how prepared she is to protect her daughter when everyone else is unarmed and not prepared for unexpected lunatics.

September 25, 2008 at 3:47 PM

c said...

I thought the idea of getting a concealed-weapons permit was to carry your weapon "concealed". If she has always "openly carried" a firearm in the past, I don't understand why is she complaining that she is now forced to keep her weapon in plain view. She obviously doesn't understand that a weapons permit is a "privilege" and not a "right"

September 25, 2008 at 3:49 PM

Jason said...

Oh no, a woman carrying a legal firearm for self-defense purposes. What a threat. e_e The only people who should feel threatened are criminals who would think of trying to hurt her, her children, or anyone around her. When seconds count the police are only minutes away...

September 25, 2008 at 3:52 PM

Angus said...

Are you kidding? He deems her a danger to public safety? I would totally back up the sheriff if she really violated some law. Do I think she is foolish, yeah, but not dangerous just because she carries. Proof she did nothing wrong.....revoking her concealed-weapons permit was his only recourse because he could not legally confiscate her gun. If she was truely dangerous, and violated a real law, they would have arrested her and taken her weapon....foolish all the way around.

September 25, 2008 at 3:53 PM

Barabus said...

Sounds like the Sheriff is the one with poor judgement

September 25, 2008 at 3:56 PM

El Bratson said...

What a level of stupidly Your upset about seeing a concealed weapon, and now you have an person with a firearm in full display. So idiots how did that work out for you? One last question, mind if my kid comes and play on your field, because I know there won't be a child molester

September 25, 2008 at 4:00 PM

Joel Rosenberg said...

I know that there's some folks in the self-defense communities who are advocates of open carry, but I'm surprised to hear that Sheriff DeLeo is so enthusiastic about it that he's insisting on it for Ms. Hain.

September 25, 2008 at 4:12 PM

Ryan said...

2nd Ammendment. Its her right. Oh wait. I forgot we don't live in the United States anymore. USSR Unites States Socialist Republic

September 25, 2008 at 4:15 PM

Dennis said...

"some parents were upset at seeing her gun." "his decision would now force Hain to keep her weapon in plain view whenever she carries it" See what you did? Think it through next time.

September 25, 2008 at 4:26 PM

NRA4EVR said...

You go girl! I will bet that there will never be a mass shooting at one of her events.

September 25, 2008 at 4:33 PM

Brian West said...

Is the soccer field school property and exclusive to the school? If not then what rule did she violate? /b

September 25, 2008 at 4:34 PM

cerulli said...

sounds like this sheriff is a oboma supporter!

September 25, 2008 at 4:48 PM

RB said...

Why would you not carry at a soccer game? How is that different from carrying at MacDonalds? If you have a CHL, and you don't carry it 24/7, you are playing Russian roulette.

September 25, 2008 at 6:10 PM

Rob said...

This is complete BS. What DeLeo is saying is that she wasn't doing anything wrong, so he couldn't actually do anything about it; but because he's an a**hat politician, and people complained, he took what vindictive punitive action he could, despite the fact that he's now forcing her to carry openly, the very thing that people were wetting their pants over. That law seriously needs to be changed; "deemed a danger to public safety based on their character and reputation" doesn't begin to describe her based on this, but it clearly allows the sheriff to pull anyone's permit just because he pleases, or because someone else wants him to.

September 25, 2008 at 6:11 PM

tom sedeski said...

C, your wrong, its a right. Remember, the "Right" ot bear arms. Not that i agree with it. this must be a record for number of comments on one article.

September 25, 2008 at 6:24 PM

supermike said...

welcome to pennsyltucky.

September 25, 2008 at 6:26 PM

paopencarry said...

justsayit said: "Obviously this woman can't read. It's a CONCEALED weapon permit. So CONCEAL it".......... BUZZZ. Wrong answer! Pennsylvania issues a "License to Carry Firearms". NOT a "concealed weapons permit". an LTCF is needed for concealed carry, carry in a vehicle (OC or CC) and carry in Philadelphia (OC or CC). If your going to try and insult the woman about the law it woud behoove you to know a LITTLE about the law yourself. :/

September 25, 2008 at 6:28 PM

John said...

Since open carry is legal in PA, and she was not waving it around like a maniac, I don't see a problem. The other soccer moms being afraid of guns are the ones with issues. What if some crazed lunatic showed up and she saved the day?

September 25, 2008 at 6:28 PM

>al-X-sanguine-8< said...

mr. david kiurtz, in order to carry a concealed weapon in PA, you have to have a license to carry a firearm, or LTCF. however, having said license doen't compel you to conceal, it only gives you the choice of concealing or not. many people get them so they can drive while armed, because wearing a gun in a vehicle is considered concealed. openly carrying is not grounds for revocation, anywhere in the state. she broke no law or statute whatsoever.

September 25, 2008 at 6:39 PM

Christina said...

On the one hand, it was a CONCEALED carry permit. She wasn't exactly concealing it, was she? On the other hand, what's wrong with a screened woman having her gun at the soccer game? The other parents need to get a grip.

September 25, 2008 at 6:41 PM

Sam said...

Taxpayer, it depends on where the soccer game is, lol. In some parts of town, I would absolutely have it! The laws vary anyhow state by state.

September 25, 2008 at 7:12 PM

NoLimitsOn2a said...

You must be kidding me I hope she sue's the pants off of that police dept. This is one reason however why I like to keep my firearm concealed it avoids the sheeple freaking out about something they don't have the proper knowledge to understand.....

September 25, 2008 at 7:18 PM

Dave said...

sounds like DeLeo isnt smart enough to think for himself and did what a former district judge told him to. she is 100% in the right! he is the dangerous one.

September 25, 2008 at 7:48 PM

dj said...

wow! obama should be proud of DeLeo. she didn't violate any rules at all and why did he deem her dangerous? because she didn't listen to him. what a joke!

September 25, 2008 at 7:57 PM

Wayne said...

So by revoking the CCW, she now is forced to do what she was doing that caused the CCW to get revoked? Sounds like 1)circular logic 2)a nutjob sheriff.

September 25, 2008 at 8:02 PM

GLJ said...

Isn't it for a concealed weapon.. not one stapped to her waist in plain view of 5 year olds? Wonder how the ref called the game....

September 25, 2008 at 8:03 PM

James Macklin said...

It does seem that in Pennsylvania where OPEN CARRY is legal, revoking a CCW because somebody saw your gun does not make a person a danger to society or a dangerous person. If this mother was a danger, the sheriff should arrest her. Instead the sheriff says that he has no authority to take her gun, just her license. Seems to be a clear violation of her civil rights for arbitrary and malicious purposes.

September 25, 2008 at 8:06 PM

michele said...

well now she can go on the soccer field with it sticking out from behind her ear being she cant conceal it anymore

September 25, 2008 at 8:09 PM

GPowe said...

She should have used better judgement and carried concealed...that's the reason for the CCW permit... but to have her permit revoked because of over reacting anti-guns is rediculous. The Sheriff should be outright embarassed over this decision.

September 25, 2008 at 9:03 PM

Mike said...

I can't understand why Hain wasn't more discreet and cover the weapon. Common sence should have prevailed, and concealed carry is just that..CONCEALED. Someone that defiant,and "stupid" maybe should NOT be allowed to carry a weapon.

September 25, 2008 at 9:33 PM

RON said...

I really think the meaning of a concealed carry permit is that no one is to know that you have the firearm.

September 25, 2008 at 9:42 PM

Texas CHL said...

If you think the liberals are working towards banning all guns and eliminating our 2A rights now, wait and see what happens if Obama / Biden win. It will be an all out war against gun owners. No thanks Obama--keep the change!

September 25, 2008 at 9:46 PM

Harvster said...

A few facts that some people seem to be ignorant of. In PA the permit is called a LTCF (license to carry firearms). It does not mean that you have to carry concealed but you can if you wish. Also you need one to carry open or concealed in Philadelphia. She did nothing wrong and will get her permit back. Educate yourselves before spouting off ridiculous comments.

September 25, 2008 at 10:07 PM

Kevin said...

Open carry is permitted in PA.

September 25, 2008 at 10:56 PM

R.M. Thomas said...

The glock would best have been carried concealed but, this is no valid excuse for the permit revocation. Either the permit means what is states or it does not. Unless a physical, verbal, or overtly obvious threat was made by this woman; the reason sheriff gave seems completely invalid.

September 25, 2008 at 11:01 PM

Tracy said...

Rules against carrying in a park? Wouldn't that make it a "gun free zone?" We all know that the criminals respect the "gun free zone." The stupidty and complete failure to understand human nature that goes into these feel-good gun control laws is dumbfounding!

September 25, 2008 at 11:17 PM

Jim C -PGH said...

There may be rules about carry in parks but what matters here is a law has not been broken. I support Ms. Hain's decision to carry for protection and the Glock 26 is a good concealed weapon. Now that she must open carry I say go get the a full sized Glock.

September 25, 2008 at 11:35 PM

Steve said...

A PA "license to carry firearms" allows a person to carry concealed or in a vehicle. It does NOT require the firearm to be concealed. Open carry is 100% legal in PA, and yes the courts have ruled on this. Now that the bozo sheriff wants to revoke her license, she has no other recourse BUT to open carry. So what did he solve?? PA law also states that no city, town or borough can make gun laws like banning them in parks, because there is no such state law. They cannot make their own laws.

September 26, 2008 at 12:13 AM

Michele said...

Melanie, you rock! You are not only a credit to the soccer Mom community, you are a credit to all women who carry a firearm. We are sure glad to have you on our side! SISTERS IN ARMS FOREVER!

September 26, 2008 at 2:06 AM

John said...

The voters who voted that idiot sheriff into office are the one's who showed poor judgement! I myself would have never had my ccw out for everyone to see but she was completely within her rights to do so. No one has the right to discipline her for this! reinstate her permit ASAP!

September 26, 2008 at 7:01 AM

B.H. said...

This Mama carries one heck of a serious gun! A Glock? But you go Mama! I don't blame you in the least...there is definitely danger at those games with the crazies that call themselves parents.

September 26, 2008 at 7:45 AM

Bob Jones said...

It is just wrong for the government of any kind to try and stop up from protecting ourselves and our loved ones. Anyone who does try to stop us from such actions should be loose their jobs for they are attacking our God given right.

September 26, 2008 at 8:57 AM

Bitter Gun Owner said...

Taxpayer, That's your decision, but not the law.

September 26, 2008 at 8:57 AM

Steve said...

->Pat s, The ACLU doesn't care one bit about the second ammendment. They are liberal, anti-gunners themselves and have no desire to defend that part of the Constitution. The only defenders of the 2nd ammendment are the NRA. If you support them, that is the best hope. Also, this is completely unlawful of the DeLeo, and he should lose his position for not upholding the law. The Sheriff's department should pay damages to Hain.

September 26, 2008 at 9:05 AM

Taxpayer1 said...

I applaud her for what she did, she should have just kept it concealed. Now he forced her to keep it in plain sight which she can do not with no problem.

September 26, 2008 at 9:12 AM

Craig said...

Is a gun really necessary at a youth soccer game? Really?

September 26, 2008 at 9:15 AM

SHEEP DOG said...

"TAXPAYER". if some idiot decideds to start shooting, maybe he'll be a good sport not shoot you in the backwhile you run to your car. Continue being a victim will you.

September 26, 2008 at 9:35 AM

Law abiding gun owner said...

Taxpayer: there is no state law prohibiting firearms at "youth" parks. If they are privately owned, they can post them as victim disarmament zones (no firearms) but you can legally still carry concealed and unless they find out you are carrying, all they can do is ask you to leave. If they are a public park or field, they cannot prohibit carry. I carry concealed at my kids soccer games all the time. What good does your firearm do in the vehicle if you need it in a life threatening situation on the field?

September 26, 2008 at 10:08 AM

Donna said...

Is this woman unaware of the definition of the word "concealed"? Here in Florida you may carry a weapon with a concealed permit, but it must be concealed! I think she has every right to carry a weapon. Although if you're going to carry a weapon, act responsible and follow the law.

September 26, 2008 at 10:38 AM

Spiff said...

So the Sheriff is the arbiter of judgment that involves no infraction? Someone has a bad case of the high-horse. You can put lipstick on a whiny soccer mom but you still have.....

September 26, 2008 at 10:44 AM

Ralph Warner said...

Face it, most cops don't like their subjects to be armed, so if they can't change the law, they will do WHATEVER they can to get around it. I spent 16 years in law enforcement, and I got fed up with the power trip that alot of them are on. Those people who allegedly complained need to read the constitution, especially the part where it says "the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed."

September 26, 2008 at 10:57 AM

Thomas said...

Craig, Unlike you, most people do not have ESP and cannot see into the future to know exactly when and where they will need to defend their life or the lives of their family. Better to have it and not need it than to not have it and and need it.

September 26, 2008 at 11:57 AM

Eric said...

I would be honored to know a mom at one of my kids games was packing her own method of self-defense. I feel safer when my neighbors, friends, etc. are armed. This sheriff was completely wrong, as were the "offended" complainers. The Second Amendment is a right, and it's not contingent on how other people "feel" about it. So they were uncomfortable, so freakin' what!?! Leftist speech makes me uncomfortable and the Sheriff is not likely to revoke their right to free speech. Does the U.S. Constitution state the feds have the right to restrict our rights based on public safety?

September 26, 2008 at 11:58 AM

Thomas said...

RON, Pennsylvania does not have a concealed carry permit; they have a License to Carry Firearms.

September 26, 2008 at 11:58 AM

CHP said...

Don't these people realise that criminals and nutcases keep their guns hidden until they start using them. Someone carrying openly in a holster is very unlikely to cause a REAL problem and could well prevent some just by being there.

September 26, 2008 at 12:26 PM

Kenneth Johns said...

Hain will have to sue over this if she wants her rights observed. If the state law permits open carry, then she was not breaking a law and that should be the only basis for removing her permit, not just that some people were made uncomfortable by her wearing her gun. People get uncomfortable over many things, guns, people smoking, people wearing a cross around their neck, etc. There has to be a legal reason to declare her a 'danger' not just that she made some gun hating liberals upset.

September 26, 2008 at 12:57 PM

George Thacker said...

I dont agree with DeLeo decision to revoke Ms.Hains permit. But however the coach did make her aware that other parents were upset. I ask the question what is more threating a gun you can see or one that is concealed? If we act like we have some sense and dont advertise the fact we carry I think we avoid alot of problems.

September 26, 2008 at 1:15 PM

Ben Miner said...

To "Craig" : A gun is absolutely "necessary" if you need a gun. Is your seat belt "necessary" since you are not planning to get in a car accident? Rights are not defined on the basis of need and it's her right to carry a gun, openly or concealed, on public property and that should be the end of the debate. Your question is whether or not it's "necessary" is wholly irrelevant.

September 26, 2008 at 1:39 PM

AJ said...

Craig: In this day and age a gun is necessary at a youth soccer game. I wonder if you have recently been in Lebanon where this woman is being prosecuted for exercising her 2nd amendments rights. The city is ridiculous with it's crimes and lowlifes. She has every right to be ready for any shananigans that these Lebanon thugs decide to pull and yes, they do pull them in parks where children play. Guns are a right, doesn't matter if they are necessary or not. POINT: PA is an open carry state...I'm looking at my carry permit right now and it states "Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms" no where does it say "concealed." More of us women should have this type of protection. If that woman found dead in the car that was abandoned by that guy from Lebanon would've had a gun to protect herself the outcome would not be him now hiding out in Baltimore.

September 26, 2008 at 1:41 PM

Sarge said...

Wow, so many misguided liberals in here who have no idea what the laws are. It is 100% legal to openly carry a firearm, so long as you are legally able to own a firearm, unless you live in Philly. If you wish to Conceal, you get a permit for concealed carry. The fact that you can legally carry concealed does NOT mean that you can no longer carry in the open. Don't worry, when Obama is elected he will do away with concealed carry just like he said he would.

September 26, 2008 at 1:47 PM

Rich-D said...

Hi Taxpayer, So you leave your gun in a vehicle. First, auto thefts and theft from auto's are the number one crime in almost every jurisdiction in this country. It's like giving a gun to a felon. Second, What if some nut starts shooting up the youths playing soccer or the people attending. Third, In PA open carry is a right established by law. Sheriff De Leo is charged with enforcing the law, not making a law that is not on the books. I am a retired LEO and I am sickened by the Sheriff's bending of the law to suit his desire. I do not think that the Sheriff will be elected to another term in that 2nd admendment rights rich county.

September 26, 2008 at 3:57 PM

Chuck said...

Wow, this is a MAJOR lawsuit waiting to happen not only against the local police department, police chief, but the soccer club as well. It doesn't sound as though the police acted lawfully in this matter either which would make them personally liable for any lawsuit brought against them. This type of abuse of power is also a federal crime.

September 26, 2008 at 4:07 PM

Jeff said...

I don't see a problem with the carry but why the hell would she not have it concealed. There was no reason for her to show it. I am in NY and I have a concealed permit but it must be concealed at all times unless hunting with it. The only places you cannot carry is federal and state gov. buildings and schools.

September 26, 2008 at 7:47 PM

KingsAmongUs said...

This woman has a right to carry her firearm openly if she so chooses to. Personally, I applaud her taking the responsibility of protecting herself and others. If more people were like this woman crime would reduce. And to the parents who complained, get a life and read the law. Had this woman stopped some armed thug that day you would be praising her.

September 26, 2008 at 9:20 PM

Grant said...

As an open carrier from Washington State, I applaud Ms. Hain. Not only is she standing up for her rights as an American citizen, but she is taking personal responsibility for her own safety and, if necessary, the safety of those around her. It's just sad that some misinformed individuals have such an unhealthy fear of an inanimate object - a tool that can be used for good just as easily as it can be used for evil. I hope Ms. Hain sues the pants off the city and that Sheriff DeLeo is job hunting after the next election.

September 26, 2008 at 11:38 PM

Ivar said...

I am heartened by the strong support shown Ms. Hain. I love the irony of the removal of the "conceal" permit, because she carried her weapon openly. I would offer the advice (not actually from personal experience) that her weapon may be more valuable to her were it concealed. Surprise is a very important element when defensive measures are called for. I am less convinced that it would be so useful as a deterrent. I believe Sheriff DeLeo stepped way out of bounds on this one, and agree that the NRA should help with the lawsuit (and I am a life member).

September 27, 2008 at 10:58 AM

DeEss said...

You don't need a permit to openly carry a firearm. If she had a concealed weapons permit, why didn't she conceal the firearm? Obviously she carried it in plain view to draw attention to herself which indicates to me that she has issues. It's people like this who give the anti-gun crowd their ammunition.

September 27, 2008 at 11:19 AM

Alan Maish said...

If it's not school K-12 or professional sporting event, its not illegal. What would you think if someone could complain about your legal driving and then the sheriff could pull your license based upon that. Driving is a privilege, bearing arms is a right that cannot even be infringed upon. No other right is so completely protected.

September 27, 2008 at 6:58 PM

Rollie Ciffo said...

I bet the VA Tech shootings would have been a different story if some folks there were carrying.

September 28, 2008 at 11:54 AM

graham john gomersall freeman said...

dear/sir/madam as you see i live in the uk but i would say this lady feels saver in todays crime rate you have to be very carefull i know i am from the uk but i just thought what i would tell you what i thought you have a country to be proud off yours sincerley graham john gomersall freeman

September 29, 2008 at 3:50 AM

Please! said...

Next thing ya know some ticked off parent that's mad at the coach is going to let bullets fly when little Timmy doesn't get enough playing time! If this lady wants to carry a gun so badly, she should become a cop. She's one step above hockey moms I guess.

September 29, 2008 at 3:12 PM

Reilly said...

Even if it WERE poor judgment for Hain to wear her gun at the game (which I don't necessarily think it was), a single error in judgment would not suffice to establish problems with her "character and reputation". There are many errors in judgment in daily life, because - news flash - we're human! (For instance, if a driver miscalculates my speed and pulls out in front of me without leaving the ideal amount of space, I'm not going to file her in the same mental box with Hannibal Lecter.) "Character and reputation" contemplates problems a lot broader and deeper than a single goof - and it doesn't seem that there's any evidence Hain has such problems. Oh - and then there's the twisted, Alice-in-Wonderland logic of a sheriff who issues a permit, then revokes it because the holder displayed "poor judgment"... in the form of doing exactly what the permit allowed her to do!

September 29, 2008 at 3:36 PM

Strategic Tactical Group said...

Has anyone called the Sheriff and asked him what he was thinking? We do CFP Classes in Utah and other States. We strongly support keeping the firearm concealed unless you absolutely have to use it. If it's legal to open carry then do so but you accept the problems associated with it. Do I think she was right? Sure as long as she follows the laws. Was the Sheriff wrong? I wouldn't vote for him since it appears he can't figure out the law.

September 29, 2008 at 4:33 PM

Jimmy Pop said...

She must be nuts or a total hick!! Honestly, who carries a gun to a kids soccor game. Go back to the hills you freak....

September 29, 2008 at 6:32 PM

citizen said...

I know its none of our business but what is the reason she needs a gun in the first place and second how does anyone know she was carrying a gun on her side. Doesn't concealed mean it can't be displayed in view of someone else.

September 30, 2008 at 5:17 AM

mom said...

come on to a soccer game...whats the principle there....attention.....lady leave it in your car. I guess she will take it to church too......

September 30, 2008 at 9:48 AM

Tobin said...

Doesn't "concealed" mean "hidden from plain sight"? It was irresponsible to wear it out in the open like that. She got what she deserved.

September 30, 2008 at 1:44 PM

justme said...

come on... look at the picture... she needs a mental health evaluation. If she is so terrified of society she needs to display her gun at a kids soccer game she should pack it up and move to Canada.

September 30, 2008 at 7:39 PM

Adam said...

You would have to look at the state constitution. Public buildings and places usually are perfectly legal to carry. Federal Buildings are usually where you run into problems and schools. If it was legal to open carry their, then the Sheriff is out of line big time and is on a major power trip.

October 1, 2008 at 1:11 PM

Rene said...

I commend the sheriff. She is in a public park. Why does she have to brazenly show it in public most especially in a game of soccer. Concealed permit means not to show if she does know it.

October 2, 2008 at 1:08 AM

Followup said...

Maybe Meleanie thinks she is in Iraq. For crissake, she is in the USA watching her kid play soccer. By her looks and posture, somebody should have her head examined. Way to go Sheriff. Do not mind those red necks insulting you. You are just doing your job.

October 2, 2008 at 1:14 AM

jim said...

YOU COULD BET THE FARM THAT IF A SITUATION DEVELOPED THERE OR ANYWHERE AND SHE HAD ACTED ON IT AND SAYED LIVES SHE WOULD BE THE HERO STAND TALL AND PROUD DONT KNOCK IT BECAUSE THE LIFE THAT THIS PERSOM MAY SAVE COULD BE YOURS OR ONE OF YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS SUPPORT YOUR RIGHT TO CARRY AND PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS. TIMES HAVE CHANGED IT ISNT LIKE THE GOOD OLD DAYS WHY BE AT THE MERCY OF SOME CRUMB THAT DONT CARE IF YOU LIVE OR DIE? DEFEND FREEDOM DEFEND YOURSELF............

October 2, 2008 at 12:41 PM

Michael said...

Can we ban fat people too? I mean, if we are taking away rights, I want to ban fat people, ugly people, and basically tell everyone else what to do. I hope this woman sues the heck out of them. The attacks on her 2A rights are out of control. She isn't bothering anyone and she is well within her rights to carry whenever and where ever it is legal to do so.

October 2, 2008 at 5:13 PM

pat said...

The law is the law,she is right, he was wrong. by the way mom I carry mine to church.

October 2, 2008 at 9:29 PM

chilly said...

If checked out responsible people carry weapons i have no proplem with it,better than empty police cars left around to deter crime

October 3, 2008 at 1:57 AM

alex in scranton said...

it's nice to see that the best many people here could come up with are simple insults on mrs. hain's appearance or mental state, instead of focusing on the actual issue: that her civil rights were violated by a pompous and overreaching former judge, and an arrogant, out-of-touch sheriff. the law was broken, yet most of you seem not to care about that; all you care about is denigrating and insulting someone who sees things differently than you, and making irrational statements. i weep for the future.

October 3, 2008 at 8:55 AM

said...

The GOVERMENT AND PATRIOT ACT AND ALL THESE SCARES ON NATIONAL SECURITY ARE JUST TO SCARE YOU INTO SUBMISSION DONT GIVE AWAY YOUR RIGHT.

October 6, 2008 at 3:38 PM

James said...

Good idea bringing a loaded gun to your 5 year old child's soccer game. What does she need it for at a game...there is no danger. Keep it elsewhere. No need for guns at a soccer game.

October 7, 2008 at 1:01 AM

MYOB said...

Unless the location (public park) or activity (soccer game) are identified as NO FIREARMS, there is no law broken -- otherwise she would have been arrested. As for using "character or reputation" as a guideline to revoke carry concealed permit, can we say loophole big enough to drive a mack truck through? One final thought: Rather than banning ugly and fat people, I'd prefer to just ban stupid people.

October 8, 2008 at 9:15 AM

Chad said...

James, there is never any danger until there is danger. Do you think Va Tech students felt people needed guns at school before the shooting? What about during? You carry because you might need it, and you could need it anywhere, anytime.

October 8, 2008 at 11:11 AM

J L DeRamo said...

Yes, leaving a loaded weapon in your car is the answer. First, it will be so handy if you should find yourself in a situation like a mall shooting or the crazy man that shot all those people in that church. Oh, and let's not forget how someone could break in to your car, get your gun and use it to shoot someone randomly. Perhaps there's a Sheriff in your area who should think about recinding your license to carry concealed.

October 13, 2008 at 11:17 PM

Jardinami said...

I think the best solution would be for all those other parents at that soccer game to refuse to allow their children to play with the gun totting mama's kids. I for one would not want to be anywhere near any childhood sporting events where parents are armed. Boston MA:The 6-foot-1, 270-pound truck driver was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for beating 160-pound Michael Costin to death at a Reading ice rink in 2000, after Junta got angry over rough play on the ice.

October 14, 2008 at 7:51 PM

JOE CITIZEN said...

It should be noted that she got the permit back. Because it should never have been revoked, Because she did not violate any laws.

October 16, 2008 at 12:07 PM

joe clark said...

It doesn't matter in what part of the State of Pennsylvania you live, the law for CONCEALED weapons carry is the same. You carry, you must conceal it unless you are working and wearing a uniform. She is the poster child for being a gun toting knuckle draging fool. Are there evil midgets going to attack on the 5 year olds soccer field. A person who does this is not qualified to be a parent.

November 25, 2008 at 3:31 PM