Boone County Sheriff Mike Helmig recently posted this letter on the department’s Facebook page addressing what he believes are the duties and responsibilities of the citizens of Boone County in the wake of the recent tragedy in San Bernadino, California.
December 6, 2015
On January 16, 2013, I released a letter that outlined my commitment to the Second Amendment and Solemn Oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States of America. In the wake of the recent tragedy in San Bernardino, California carried out by Radicalized Islamic Extremists and Terrorists, I continue to stand committed to the safety and security of our community; however I can’t do it alone.
Sheriff Paul J. Van Blarcum of Ulster County, New York recently urged residents to “…responsibly take advantage of your legal right to carry a firearm…”
I would like to issue the following call to action:
I have reminded my current and retired Deputy Sheriffs of their responsibility to carry their firearms while off-duty. I would also like to remind the people who have applied, been trained, and issued a license to carry a Concealed Deadly Weapon (CCDW) that they also have a responsibility to carry their firearm, which they are proficient with, for the safety of themselves and others. It is also the responsibility of everyone to refresh themselves with the laws that govern the privilege and great responsibility that accompany being a CCDW license holder.
What else can you do?
The Department of Homeland Security has embarked on a campaign, “If You See Something, Say Something” that asks the public to report suspicious activity to law enforcement. If you see something out of place or suspicious, please call 859-371-1234 or 911.
Each of us, as proud Kentuckians, has a great responsibility to uphold the values of the United States Constitution and protect this great nation from acts of foreign or domestic terrorism.
‘United We Stand, Divided We Fall’
Sheriff Michael A. Helmig