Gun Rights Dispute in U.S. Virgin Islands: Advocacy Groups Sue for Concealed Carry Licenses

In a recent legal development, Gun Owners of America and Gun Owners Foundation have initiated a lawsuit against the U.S. Virgin Islands government and its police commissioner. These advocacy groups are pushing for nonresidents to receive licenses to carry concealed handguns within the territory. This action highlights an escalating debate over Second Amendment rights.

The lawsuit involves Florida resident Sean Dale Henry, a member of Gun Owners of America. He has made repeated attempts to contact the U.S. Virgin Islands police department regarding a concealed carry license. According to the suit, Henry was unable to reach the department by phone. The lawsuit argues that this inability emphasizes his need to bear arms for self-defense.

The U.S. Virgin Islands government has not yet responded to inquiries about the lawsuit. Henry plans to visit the territory multiple times in the near future and intends to carry a concealed firearm for personal protection. Luis Valdes, an outreach director for Gun Owners of America, reinforced this intention by stating, “The Second Amendment doesn’t end at the shoreline. Americans don’t lose their constitutional rights simply because they travel to a U.S. territory.”

This is not the first instance of legal contention between the U.S. Virgin Islands government and issues related to the Second Amendment. Previously, in December, the U.S. Justice Department accused the territory of systematically denying citizens the right to possess and carry firearms, citing restrictive local laws. These laws require applicants to prove a significant threat to their safety and have their need for a firearm endorsed by credible individuals.

In response, the U.S. Virgin Islands defended its stance, asserting a balance between constitutional rights and public safety. A February court filing from the territory challenged the U.S. government’s position, accusing it of engaging in practices that infringe on constitutional rights. This previous case remains active in the court system.