it was range law. This takes us to the statement made earlier that "their range, their rules"
RULE not LAW.
Thanks for the update!
it was range law. This takes us to the statement made earlier that "their range, their rules"
Alright guys, here's the skinny from the OTHER Range Officer, Ed. I just got off the phone with him and he said that someone came out today and questioned him about the event. He didn't know anything about it so wasn't able to offer them any answers one way or the other.
I told him what had happened and he immediately said "It wasn't me!" I assured him that I stood up for him here in the forum and he was appreciative of that fact. He said from what the gentleman said to him today, a letter was written to his boss, along with a phone call (same guy?), in Indy and that the boss then issued a note to them. I don't know what the note says and I should have asked, thinking back on it now.
He said that it isn't against State law to carry openly or concealed on the range, it was range law. This takes us to the statement made earlier that "their range, their rules" which I'm sure would have been followed had he been made aware of it at the time, instead of having his loaded pistol drawn on the firing line.
The RO's name in question is John. He has been known for at least the last 6 years as a crank. When he is at the range it is run very strictly and very unfriendly. When Ed is there we always invite him out to join us for some hot dogs and soda, which he always does (except for this last shoot a couple weeks ago).
One last comment. Ed wanted me to admonish everyone to PLEASE DON'T STOP USING THE RANGE! It is a simple matter to call ahead and find out who is working that day or the day you would like to use the range. The number for Kingsbury DNR range is 219-393-1128. This range hosts a "Youth Fun Day at the Range" every year, which is a hunter retention/recruitment event, and the proceeds from the range fees help with this. This years event will be held Sunday, September 13th, and all youths aged 17 and younger are welcome and it's totally free to whoever shows up. They even provide safety glasses, ear plugs, bows, arrows, shotguns, clays, rifles, and all ammo. Even lunch is free and every child receives a really nice T-shirt commemorating the day.
Regards,
Eric
It is a simple matter to call ahead and find out who is working that day or the day you would like to use the range. The number for Kingsbury DNR range is 219-393-1128.
Do you think the PD is even going to take this report? This is a DNR Officer that felt he was acting within his duties. (he wasn't obviously)
I can see a complaint filed with the DNR, but I wonder if the police would(could?) even get involved. I know DNR officers in Indiana are given full police powers, but at what level? (and does that matter?)
Thanks for following up on this. What was Ed's opinion on how John handled the situation in question?
One should not have to call ahead and find out who's working. We should have Range Officers with common sense working OUR public state shooting ranges. Not only do I think this guy needs fired or let go, but maybe after this all State Range Officers need a refesher course not only on their postions, but legallly what they can and can't do and be covered by the state. As for legal action that is a matter for ChalupaCabras to deal with does he think it's worth it to pursue charges.
He said it was a really stupid thing for him to do and that he was very lucky that "he didn't get his a$$ kicked."
Regards,
Eric
WOW I don't know what to say.
I have been out of town for a few days with family. I am stunned by how this thread has mushroomed! 10 pages? Thanks for the support and advice everyone.
I assure you all that the entirety of my story is true. Serial Crusher is a close friend of mine, and he will vouch for my honesty. I don't know If I included this in my original post or not, but on the day in question i was shooting with my fiance', and she saw the entire thing. She was sitting next to me during the entire incident. After the RO walked away, I looked at her and her mouth was hanging open. I have a witness. This event really did happen.
Yesterday, around 3PM I believe, I received a call from the manager of the DNR Kingsbury property. He said that he had received notice of the incident from Major Hunter of the DNR conservation officers and the he wanted me to fill him in on the details. I was polite and informed him that the RO had approached unannounced on a hot range and snatched my gun. I told him that he said it was against state law. I told him that the RO committed a spectacular safety breech and that he has no business being a safety officer. The manager didn't seem happy, and he said that he would speak with the RO in question. We will see if anything comes of it.
Thanks preachere for finding out which RO is was. John correct? I have met Ed before, and I agree that he is a nice guy. I have no quarrels with him.