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Yolo, Sacramento Sheriffs Sticking With Concealed-Carry Rules After Court Ruling

YOLO COUNTY (CBS13) — California gun owners may have some trouble getting a concealed carry permit depending on the county in which they live.

On Thursday, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that sheriffs can deny permits unless people prove a specific need to carry the weapon.

The lawsuit began in San Diego County seven years ago when the plaintiff was denied a concealed-carry licenses for failing to show good cause. Plaintiffs from Yolo County joined the lawsuit claiming their Second Amendment rights had been violated for similar reasons.

"We're going to continue with our policy until we're told otherwise," said Yolo County Sheriff Ed Prieto.

In Yolo County, there are 220 people with concealed carry permits. Last year 27 people applied for the permit. Ten were approved and 10 have been denied. The others are in processing.

Personal safety alone isn't reason enough to be granted one of those permits according to Prieto.

"I do not believe we need to have more guns in the street," said Prieto, "I do not believe that every person should be allowed to carry a weapon concealed."

The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals agrees. On Thursday, the court ruled 7 to 4 to uphold the state law which says people must show "good cause" for carrying a concealed handgun.

"It's a false sense of security for a lot of people," said Tom Hudspeth, a retired Woodland teacher.

"I don't personally have weapons, but if you want to carry one, then why not?" said Zach Wirth, a Woodland business owner.

In Yolo County, for example, you must prove you work in a dangerous profession, or have been the victim of documented threats to be approved for a permit. Policies can differ from county to county.

"The elected sheriff, he or she has to really determine what is best for the community," said Prieto.

Gun rights advocates, like Sam Paredes with Gun Owners of California says the panel of 11 judges ignored the law and only addressed a narrow section.

"They're saying the people don't have a second amendment right to carry and conceal firearms. Period," said Paredes.

A major ruling with what Paredes calls dangerous consequences.

"They're going to create victims in the state of California," said Paredes, "people who cannot protect themselves because they cannot avail themselves of the means to do so.

Paredes says there will be an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, but it won't be until a replacement for former justice Antonin Scalia is named.

Statement from Sacramento Sheriff Scott Jones:

Just as the lower court ruling had no effect on our CCW polices, nor will this decision.

Statement from Attorney General Kamala Harris:

The devastating impact gun violence has on our communities underscores the need for common sense gun safety laws. The court's decision is a victory for public safety and sensible gun safety laws. The ruling ensures that local law enforcement leaders have the tools they need to protect public safety by determining who can carry loaded, concealed weapons in our communities.

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