Gun Owners of America and Gun Owners Foundation have sued the U.S. Virgin Islands government and its police commissioner. The lawsuit aims to allow nonresidents to obtain licenses to carry concealed handguns in the territory. This legal action highlights ongoing debates surrounding the Second Amendment.
The lawsuit mentions Sean Dale Henry, a Florida resident and member of Gun Owners of America. Despite multiple attempts, Henry has been unable to contact the U.S. Virgin Islands’ police to apply for a gun license. His situation underscores the importance he places on self-defense.
Henry plans to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands soon and wishes to carry a concealed weapon for protection. Luis Valdes, outreach director for Gun Owners of America, emphasized that constitutional rights should not be compromised when traveling to U.S. territories.
This is not the first lawsuit against the U.S. Virgin Islands over Second Amendment issues. In December, the U.S. Justice Department accused the territory of blocking citizens from gun rights, citing restrictive local laws. The law requires applicants to show a credible fear of injury and provide two vouchers for their need of a firearm.
At that time, the U.S. Virgin Islands defended its approach by stressing a balance between constitutional rights and public safety. In a February filing, the territory accused the U.S. of hypocritical behavior in law enforcement practices.
The dispute continues to unfold in court.