Law enforcement veteran Michael Letts explains why the measure needs a closer look before more trouble brews in the state.
Oregon’s strict attempts to introduce a “protective” gun law could very well drive up the criminal activity – going against the very nature of what state officials had in mind.
In late October, the state introduced Measure 114, a law that would not only require a permit to purchase firearms, but would also ban the sale of magazines carrying more than 10 rounds. While private gun owners and Second Amendment advocates were upset about the law, it could also be a thorn in the side of police officers in the state.
If it ends up being passed (at the moment, a judge has temporarily blocked it from being made into law), police would not only have to deal with the permit issue, but also may not be allowed to carry firearms when off-duty. As a result, when criminals strike, they could be left short-handed to deal with the situation. While it does have a provision put in place for law enforcement agencies and military members, it’s worded in a confusing manner, “solely for authorized use by that entity related to the official duties of the entity.”
As a result, several officers are concerned. Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner told Fox News, “It’s not clear how existing certified public safety professionals are treated under this ballot measure. Both the purchase of weapons and the possession of magazines in excess of 10 rounds, which all of our duty weapons have that.”
With us now to discuss what could be a disaster for the state (if passed) by Michael Letts, a law enforcement veteran with over 30 years of service under his belt. Michael continues to serve his fellow men and women in blue to this day thanks to InVest USA, an organization that he created and serves as the president and CEO of. It’s a group that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable organizations and sponsorships. His expertise should prove useful in this matter.
Q&A:
- First off, let’s talk about how Oregon likely put together Measure 114 without doing enough work to support its police officers. Especially those that are off-duty. How important is it for off-duty officers to have their weapon?
- What do you think criminal encounters would be like if they were prevented from having their firearms on them? Could we see an increase in criminal activity as a result?
- Oregon is already reeling from a rise in crime, mainly due to depleted officer numbers. Do you think the passing of Measure 114 could cause even more to quit, especially when it comes to acquiring new firearms and magazines?
- What do you think Oregon could’ve done differently when doing its research for Measure 114? Or do you believe it should’ve been done away with entirely?
- Could we see more states attempt to introduce their own Measure to align with President Joe Biden’s push to ban “assault weapons”?
- You’ve been a believer in Concealed-Carry, as several reports of these citizens stopping active shooter events have made the rounds. Do you believe states (and possibly even the government) should focus on this instead?
- You’re the founder, president and CEO for InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable groups and sponsorships. Tell us more about that, and why support for fellow officers is so important right now.
- We understand that InVest USA is also actively involved with Twitter. Where can interested parties learn more?
- Those interested in what I do on Twitter can do so on the official Invest USA account.
About Michael Letts:
Michael Letts is the Founder, President, and CEO of InVest USA, a national grassroots non-profit organization that is helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs. He also has over 30 years of law enforcement experience under his belt, hence his pro-police stance for his brothers and sisters in blue. Those interested in learning more about Letts can visit his official website here.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin at: jerry.specialguests@gmail.com or 919-437-0001.
