States and municipalities are not free to run roughshod over the Second Amendment, no matter how much anti-gun politicians want to strip these rights away. Now, a powerful stand by the federal government put one of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas on notice.
The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed suit Tuesday against the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LACSD). Sheriff Robert Luna (D) is also listed as a defendant.
The DOJ launched an investigation into the department in March after receiving scores of complaints from citizens regarding “unreasonable delays” in processing concealed carry weapons (CCW) permit applications.
LA County stands accused of “slow walking” CCW applications
The agency sifted through over 8,000 CCW applications and concluded that the actions—or lack of action—by the LA County Sheriff’s Department warranted a strong legal challenge.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon told reporters that the county brought trouble on itself.
DOJ argues the sheriff’s department illegally resisted approving CCW applications
“The Second Amendment is not a second-class right,” Dhillon asserted. “This lawsuit seeks to stop Los Angeles County’s egregious pattern and practice of delaying law-abiding citizens from exercising their right to bear arms.”
The numbers tell the story.
California residents are forced to get a CCW to carry a concealed weapon in public, and Los Angeles County citizens must apply through the LACSD. The applicant must have completed a firearm safety course and provide proof of residence.
According to the DOJ, between January 2024 and March 2025, 3,982 CCW applications were submitted to county officials.
Two were approved.
State law requires a determination within 90 days of submission. The DOJ further noted that as of May, a staggering 2,768 applications were still pending, demonstrating the unreasonable logjam created by county officials.
There’s no better way to show your patriotism than with merch that speaks before you do.
Defend America is more than a name, it’s a stand for freedom, resilience, and the values this country was built on. Every tee, hat, and mug is a symbol of unapologetic pride. Wear it loud, wear it proud, and let the world know: freedom isn’t negotiable.
Click the link below to join the movement.