How Does the Oswego Police Chief Feel About Concealed Carry?

The Illinois State Legislature met today to vote on the conceal carry bill (House Bill 183) that last week Gov. Quinn sent back with an amendatory veto. 

The bill was approved, which now legally allows individuals to carry concealed weapons in Illinois, the only state that did not yet have such a bill.

Oswego Police Chief Dwight Baird gave his thoughts on the conceal carry bill and what it means for the Oswego Police Department.

“It doesn’t really affect the officer all that much,” said Baird. “It will just be another law that we will have to get used to. The officers are trained at the academy that when you walk upon a vehicle, go somewhere, to know someone can be armed at any time,” said Baird.

He said the largest change is going to be now when an officer does identify someone that has a weapon is now they will have to make sure they have the proper permits to have the firearm.

“I don’t think people are going to be carrying right away either,” added Baird, saying there will still be a period of time for the operation process.

Related:

• Oswego Not Banning Assault Weapons