Mesa County sheriff reacts to proposed gun regulations

With proposed new gun legislation coming from the White House this past week, many in Mesa County are concerned about their Second Amendment rights.

The sheriff's office says it's received several calls from people concerned about their right to bear arms being trampled on.

Today, Sheriff Stan Hilkey said in a statement he wants to assure residents that he takes his oath of office seriously and that he will protect the rights of local citizens. He thinks the real problem is mental health issues, saying "Like most sheriffs in America, my jail has far too many people that cycle through with mental health issues that are unaddressed, undiagnosed, or have fallen through the cracks to receive the care they need."

He goes on to say..."If an agent of the federal government violates a state law in my county we will take appropriate enforcement actions, and I will resist, appropriately, efforts by the federal government to manage my agency or unduly and unlawfully infringe upon the rights of our citizens."

To be clear, the president did not and cannot ban assault rifles or large magazines on his own. These were just the suggestions made to congress and only congress can pass them as laws.

Some local groups will be holding a peaceful assembly tomorrow in support of gun rights. If you'd like to attend, the rally is tomorrow at noon in front of the Mesa County Courthouse.

If you'd like to read the full statement by Sheriff Hilkey, Click below.

Sheriff Hilkey's statement on 2nd Amendment