Over the last couple of weeks, a dramatic saga has taken place between open carry advocates and Olmos Park police in Texas.
The Backstory
The incident began on Monday, March 26 when CJ Grisham, the founder of Open Carry Texas (OCT), put in a call to Olmos Park Police Chief Rene Valenciano. Grisham questioned Valenciano's stance on open carry and whether or not open carry activists would have issues if a demonstration was held in the San Antonio suburb.
On Tuesday, March 27, OCT held an open carry rally in Olmos Park, which resulted in the arrest of three OCT members, including Grisham.
The Change In Law
Grisham's arrest sparked an outcry from gun rights activists. On Thursday, March 29, Olmos Park City Council unanimously repealed a city ordinance that prohibited anyone (except a police officer) from carrying a loaded rifle or shotgun in public, My San Antonio reported.
The ordinance was in violation of multiple Texas state laws. The first violation: state law allows an individual to open carry a long gun without any sort of permit or license. The second violation: state law prohibits local governments from pre-empting state law.
OCT posted a statement on Facebook detailing their thoughts on the city's ordinance change:
The "Forced Education" Rally
OCT decided to hold a rally on Saturday, April 7th. Here's what the group's Facebook event said:
According to Olmos Park officials, OCT did not obtain a permit for their rally, which is typically required. Olmos Park City Attorney Frank Garza told My San Antonio that police won't interfere with a peaceful rally.
Open Carry Texas' legislative director, Richard Briscoe, said he wasn't sure how big the crowd would be. It could range from 50 to 250 protestors, depending on the number of people who come from out of state. Some activists will also be armed in accordance with Texas state law.
Protestors will make their way to Olmos Park City Hall to file a petition demanding Police Chief Rene Valenciano's dismissal.
