My Home Town Bradenton, Florida...The Fall and Rise of The Desoto Square Mall...
Gregory Kielma • October 31, 2023
DeSoto Square Mall: The Bradenton, FL Mall That Time Forgot…Maybe? NAW!!!!

DeSoto Square Mall: The Bradenton, FL Mall That Time Forgot…Maybe?
Author Spencer Walsh
October 29, 2023
The Birth of DeSoto Square Mall: A New Dawn in Bradenton
In 1973, people sought exciting places to spend their hard-earned money. That’s when DeSoto Square Mall burst onto the scene in Bradenton, FL, thanks to the ingenuity of the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation.
Initially, the mall was slated to go by Bradenton Mall. However, city officials had reservations about that name since the mall wasn’t actually within the city limits.
So, the company pivoted and rechristened it as DeSoto Square Mall. A savvy move that not only resolved the geographical issue but also added a dash of sophistication, don’t you think?
The name change from Bradenton Mall to DeSoto Square Mall was a strategic move to give the mall a unique identity.
The mall opened with anchor stores like JCPenney, Sears, and Maas Brothers. These were the big players back in the day.
Imagine walking into the mall and being greeted by the smell of fresh popcorn and the sound of laughter. It was the place to be, and it felt like a new world had opened up in Bradenton.
Moving on, the mall wasn’t just a shopping center; it was a social hub. Teenagers would hang out at the arcade while adults found solace in the various boutiques and department stores. It was a win-win for everyone.
Additionally, the mall’s strategic location at 303 301 Boulevard West made it easily accessible. You could hop off the freeway, shop, and return to the road quickly. Convenience was the name of the game.
In contrast to today’s digital age, the mall was a testament to the era of physical retail. It was a time when people enjoyed going out to shop. Ah, those were the days!
The Golden Years and Celebrity Visits: When DeSoto Square Mall Was the Star
Fast forward a few years, and the mall was thriving. It was the late ’70s, and DeSoto Square Mall was the place to be.
Even Ronald Reagan couldn’t resist its charm. That’s right, the future President of the United States visited the mall in 1976. Talk about star power!
Now, let’s talk about expansion. In 1978, the mall decided it was time to grow. The Suncoast Motel was demolished to make way for additional parking facilities. Because when you’re popular, you need room for all your fans, right?
In the years that followed, the mall continued to be a bustling hub of activity. Families would spend their weekends exploring the stores, dining at the food court, and participating in seasonal events. It was a wondrous time, and the mall was at the center of it all.
So, why was DeSoto Square Mall so special? It wasn’t just the stores or the food court; it was the experience.
The mall had a way of making you feel like you were part of something bigger. It was a community gathering spot, a place where memories were made.
DeSoto Square Mall was more than a shopping center; it was a cornerstone of the community.
Changes in Retail Landscape: The Winds of Change at DeSoto Square Mall
The ’80s and ’90s brought new challenges and opportunities for DeSoto Square Mall. New stores like Belk-Lindsey in 1979 and Burdines in 1991 debuted, adding to the mall’s allure. But that’s not all.
The late ’80s saw talks about adding a food court. Finally, in April 1997, the Port O’Call food court opened its doors.
Moving on, the new millennium brought its own set of changes. Old Navy joined the mall in 2000, and Burdines rebranded to Macy’s in 2004. The mall was adapting, evolving, and doing its best to keep up with the times.
If you were looking for things to do in Bradenton, Florida, the mall was still a top choice. It was a one-stop shop for all your needs. From shopping and dining to entertainment, DeSoto Square Mall had it all.
In contrast, the retail landscape was changing rapidly. Online shopping was becoming more popular, and malls nationwide felt the heat. DeSoto Square Mall was no exception.
It was a challenging time, but the mall soldiered on, adapting and evolving to meet the needs of a new generation.
The Impact of Economic Downturns: When the Tide Turned for DeSoto Square Mall
Ah, the Great Recession of 2008. It was a tough time for many, and DeSoto Square Mall was no exception. In 2009, several stores closed (Dillard’s, Old Navy, Waldenbooks, and Foot Locker), leaving empty spaces and a sense of loss.
But wait, there’s a silver lining! The space formerly occupied by Old Navy transformed into Saturn 5, a family entertainment center, in 2010. Talk about making lemonade out of lemons!
The transformation of Old Navy’s space into Saturn 5 was a creative way to utilize vacant retail space.
Moving on, the mall faced another challenge in May 2012 when Simon Property Group announced plans to sell it. The mall was changing hands, and uncertainty loomed large.
But as they say, when one door closes, another opens. Mason Asset Management swooped in and acquired the property in November 2012 for a cool $25 million.
In a series of blows to DeSoto Square Mall, Macy’s shuttered its doors in July 2014 to move to the Mall at University Town Center, followed by the theater’s closure a month later.
Sears Holdings spun off 235 properties, including its DeSoto Square Mall location, into a separate entity called Seritage Growth Properties in 2015 but closed in October 2018.
Additionally, the new owners had plans to revitalize the mall, but the financial struggles were far from over. In contrast to its golden years, the mall was a shadow of its former self. Yet, it held a certain nostalgic charm for those who remembered its heyday. It was a bittersweet reminder of times gone by.
Ownership Changes and Financial Struggles: The Rollercoaster Ride of DeSoto Square Mall
Ah, the world of business is never straightforward, is it? DeSoto Square Mall experienced its fair share of ups and downs regarding ownership.
Mason Asset Management took the reins in November 2012, shelling out $25 million for the property. You’d think with new ownership, the mall would get a fresh start, right? Well, not exactly.
New ownership doesn’t always mean a fresh start; sometimes, it’s just a change of hands in an ongoing struggle.
The mall was already grappling with financial issues, and Mason Asset Management had a tough road ahead. They had plans, they had visions, but what they didn’t have was a magic wand.
Additionally, let’s talk about bankruptcy. In a twist worthy of a daytime drama, Romspen US Master Mortgage LP finally took over the property through an online bankruptcy auction in October 2021.
Why? DeSoto Owners LLC couldn’t keep up with a loan ballooning to $21 million. Adding another layer to this intricate tale, Meyer Lebovitz, owner of DeSoto Owners LLC, had initially bought the property from Mason Asset in April 2017 for a staggering $25,500,000.
If you find it hard to keep up, you’re in good company. The ownership saga of the mall is as tangled as any TV melodrama.
The mall’s complex ownership history is a testament to its financial struggles and the challenges of retail in the modern age.
In contrast to the mall’s early years, when it was a bustling hub of activity, these ownership changes and financial struggles painted a picture of instability.
Moving on, despite the financial hurdles, the mall trudged along. It was like a fighter refusing to throw in the towel. But as we all know, every story has an ending, and DeSoto Square Mall was no exception.
The Final Chapter and Closure: The Sun Sets on DeSoto Square Mall
Fast forward to April 29, 2021, and the inevitable happened. DeSoto Square Mall closed its doors, leaving behind only four operating stores. It was the end of an era, and the mall that had once been a bustling hub of activity was now silent.
The closure of DeSoto Square Mall was not just the end of a shopping center, but the end of a community landmark.
DeSoto Owners LLC, the company that owned the mall, made attempts to restructure its finances. However, the mall had reached a point of no return. It was time to say goodbye.
So, what was it like on that final day? Imagine walking through the empty corridors, past closed stores and vacant spaces. It was like walking through a ghost town, a place frozen in time. Yet, the memories remained, etched in the walls and the hearts of those who had spent their days there.
Moving on, the mall’s closure left a void in the community. It was more than a place to shop; it was a place where friendships were made, where families came together, and where memories were created. And now, it was gone.
What Lies Ahead for DeSoto Square Mall: A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes?
But don’t lose hope just yet! CRJ Bradenton LLC purchased the DeSoto Square Mall property for $25.7 million in May 2022 and has big plans for its future.
Imagine luxury apartments, mixed-use spaces, and a whole new vibe. The property is set to be redeveloped into smaller 8 or 10-acre parcels, adding a fresh lease of life to the 58-acre area.
Additionally, the new owners have been working on a master plan to transform the property into an exciting mixed-use village. They’re even addressing some historic stormwater challenges in partnership with the county. So, it’s not just about buildings; it’s about creating a sustainable future.
In contrast to its past struggles, the future looks promising for the DeSoto Square Mall property. The first phase of redevelopment includes 300 residential units. So, if you’re wondering what’s next for this iconic landmark, let’s say it’s gearing up for a second act.

Glock Confirms V Series, Discontinues Gen 4 & Gen 5 Pistols Austrian gun company Glock revealed company plans to discontinue a large portion of its pistols starting in November. Glock issued a statement on October 21, 2025, regarding the leak of the company’s plans. “Yesterday, a retailer NOT affiliated with GLOCK Inc. made premature statements concerning the availability of certain GLOCK pistols. The individuals making these representations are not authorized to speak for GLOCK. As part of GLOCK’s commitment to future innovations, we are making necessary updates to our product line to align with upcoming offerings. Our dedication continues to be with maintaining the highest level of quality, reliability, and accessibility that you expect from GLOCK. The GLOCK V Series is here to establish a baseline of products while simplifying our processes.” According to the company, V models will be available December 2025 and will include the following models: • G17 V • G19 V • G19X V • G45 V • G26 V • G20 V MOS • G23 V • G23 V MOS • G21 V MOS • G44 V Glock also said that distributor exclusive models will be available, including: • G19C V • G45C V • G17C V • G19X V MOS TB Glock Store posted about Glock’s plans on social media, saying they’d received word that all Glocks will soon be discontinued except for the Glock 43, 43X, and 48X. Glock G19 According to Glock Store, the discontinued models will be usurped by all new Glock models known as “V Models.” The newer pistols will not come in MOS formats upon launch but will include features that prevent Glock pistols from being used along with switch conversion kits that make them full auto. Glock 17 converted to full-auto Tactical K Training and Firearms reached out to Glock for comment but received no word by the time of publishing. We confirmed with multiple sources close to the company, though, that they too have been informed that starting November 30, 2025, Glock will stop shipping the discontinued models. That said, Glock’s own webpage lists popular models like the Glock 17, Glock 17 MOS, Glock 19 Gen 4, and more as discontinued. According to the page, the decision to cut models out of the lineup was a strategic one. “In order to focus on the products that will drive future innovation and growth, we are making a strategic decision to reduce our current commercial portfolio,” the company said. “This streamlined approach allows us to concentrate on continuing to deliver the highest-quality and most relevant solutions for the market.” Though Glock says the move is to provide a more focused lineup for consumers, California just announced last week that it was banning the sale of pistols that could be converted to “machineguns” — effectively putting an end to sales on most Glock pistols and Glock clones in the state. Though Glock appears to be discontinuing some pistols, it does say support will remain for owners of discontinued models.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter St. Paul Mayor, Councilors Considering Ban On Many Common Semi-Auto Firearms Mark Chesnut - St. Paul’s Proposed Assault Weapon Ban Draws Fire Over State Law Violation The decision by St. Paul, Minnesota, city councilors to push forward with a plan to ban so-called “assault weapons” and “high-capacity” magazines is drawing fire from a state gun owners’ group. At their October 22 meeting, councilors introduced a proposal that would ban many common semi-automatic rifles and high-capacity magazines that hold more than 10 rounds within the city limits. “We have to do something,” said St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, who is backing the proposal. “What we’re saying isn’t that you can’t make, sell, or own an assault rifle. What we’re saying is don’t carry it down Grand Avenue.” Mayor Carter did not elaborate on whether carrying an “assault weapon” down Grand Avenue was currently a big problem in the city. The main downfall of the proposal, which is likely to pass given the council’s support, is that it violates the state’s firearms preemption law, which was enacted for just such a purpose. That law states: “The legislature preempts all authority of a home rule charter or statutory city, including a city of the first class, county, town, municipal corporation, or other governmental subdivision, or any of their instrumentalities, to regulate firearms, ammunition, or their respective components to the complete exclusion of any order, ordinance or regulation by them except that: (a) a governmental subdivision may regulate the discharge of firearms; and (b) a governmental subdivision may adopt regulations identical to state law. Local regulation inconsistent with this section is void.” That’s just one of the sticking points with the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus (MGOC), which trashed the proposal in a recent action alert.

17 Anti-Gun AGs Side With Hawaii On Purchase Permits, Inspection Requirement Mark Chesnut - A coalition of anti-gun attorneys general from 17 states has filed an amicus brief with the San Francisco-based 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in support of two restrictive Hawaii laws being challenged as unconstitutional under the Second Amendment. The lawsuit revolves around two provisions of Hawaii’s permitting regime— a 30-day time limit to purchase a firearm after receiving a permit and a requirement that police inspect legally purchased firearms within five days. The brief argues that not only do the laws directly violate the Second Amendment, but they also lack historical support and impose undue burdens on law-abiding citizens exercising their constitutional rights. In March, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court struck down the two provisions, but the state government appealed to the full 9th Circuit. However, the brief from the 17 anti-gun AGs urges the 9th Circuit’s en banc panel to reverse the decision striking down the provisions. The brief claims that states’ interests in implementing “appropriate, reasonable regulations tailored to their specific circumstances” is more important than the protections afforded by the Second Amendment. Heading up the AGs’ efforts is California Attorney General Rob Bonta, one of the most anti-gun attorney generals in the country. In Other NEWS Anti-Gun Lies March 23, 2025 The Violence Policy Center (VPC) has set its sights on banning .50... “No one should be made to live in fear: States have both the responsibility and the authority to protect their communities from the threat of gun violence,” Bonta said in a news release announcing the filing. “Commonsense gun restrictions help stop dangerous weapons from reaching the hands of those who shouldn’t possess them, while upholding law-abiding gun owners’ Second Amendment rights. We will continue to stand up for States’ legal authority to enact laws to maintain public safety, including constitutional gun regulations that respond to local needs and concerns.” Joining Bonta in filing the brief were attorneys general from Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and the District of Columbia. Gun-rights groups are also heavily invested in the case, with the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) filing a brief arguing against the constitutionality of the provisions. Alan M. Gottlieb, SAF founder and executive vice president, said the amicus brief is part of his organization’s ongoing mission to defend, secure and restore the Second Amendment rights of Hawaii residents. “These arbitrary restrictions in Hawaii are unique and burdensome, with no parallel in other states,” Gottlieb said. “We urge the Ninth Circuit to either reinstate the three-judge panel’s ruling striking down these laws or rule in favor of the plaintiffs, ensuring that the Second Amendment is treated with the respect it deserves.”

ATF Reports Soaring Seizures of Machine Gun Conversion Devices — But What’s Really Driving the Numbers? Scott Witner Des Moines, IA — According to Des Moines Police Chief Michael McTaggart, local officers are encountering more “machine gun conversion devices” (MCDs). These tiny parts can turn semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons. While that might sound alarming to some, the reality is far more complex than the headlines suggest. The Hype vs. the Reality MCDs, also known as switches or auto sears, are about the size of a quarter and can be 3D-printed or purchased online for next to nothing. The ATF claims law enforcement agencies across the U.S. have seized an increasing number of them, from just 658 in 2019 to 5,816 in 2023, a reported 784% increase. Critics, however, argue that the surge says as much about enforcement priorities and ATF reporting methods as it does about actual criminal trends. A fivefold increase in data collection doesn’t necessarily mean a fivefold increase in use, especially when most seizures come from possession or manufacturing cases, not violent crimes. State and Federal Tug-of-War Adding to the confusion, the ATF recently walked back one of its own enforcement actions. In early 2024, “forced-reset triggers” (FRTs), which the Biden administration had previously ordered seized, were reclassified as lawful for use with semiautomatic rifles under a settlement reached during the Trump administration. The agreement required certain manufacturers to halt development of pistol versions of these devices, while thousands of previously confiscated rifle triggers were ordered returned to their owners. Still, the government won’t allow them to be redistributed in 16 states that chose to block the deal, Iowa not among them.

Judges rule some Florida gun laws are unconstitutional. Here's what to know Story by KATE PAYNE US Florida Gun Laws What to Know TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A pair of court rulings declaring some of Florida's gun restrictions unconstitutional are creating some confusion in the notoriously firearm-friendly state — and fueling activists' calls for Republican legislators to take action to update state statutes so they abide by the new legal landscape. US Florida Gun Laws What to Know Despite Florida's history of being a gun-supporting climate, Florida's GOP-dominated state Legislature took steps to restrict gun laws in the wake of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. Since the day the measure was signed into law, gun rights advocates have been pushing to unravel it. US Florida Gun Laws What to Know Now, activists say recent court rulings are fueling their push to expand gun rights in the state, emboldened by U.S. Supreme Court's updated standards for evaluating gun laws based on the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation. “Leaving unconstitutional laws on the books creates nothing but confusion,” said Sean Caranna, executive director of the advocacy group Florida Carry. Open carry ruling sparks questions Florida's First District Court of Appeal issued its ruling last month in a case stemming from the July 4, 2022, arrest of a man who stood at a major intersection in downtown Pensacola carrying a visible, holstered pistol and a copy of the U.S. Constitution. The decision legalizes open carry, though there are preexisting limitations against carrying in a threatening manner or in certain restricted spaces like government meetings, schools and bars. The ruling has prompted some Florida sheriffs to urge caution among gun owners and seek clarity from lawmakers. Legalizing open carry has long been a major focus of gun rights activists in the state, who oppose the slate of restrictions that Florida’ lawmakers implemented in the wake of the Parkland school shooting, which killed 17 people and injured 17 others. Among the law's provisions was raising the legal gun-buying age to 21. Advocates push for expanding gun laws In the years since the 2018 Parkland shooting, lawmakers' efforts to lower the gun-buying age to 18 have advanced in the Florida House but ultimately failed in the state Senate. Now some advocates say the recent court rulings should force the hand of legislators who have opposed expanding gun rights in the past. "I hope that given some of the recent decisions from the United States Supreme Court and the Florida courts, that they will finally see that the Second Amendment is not a second-class right," he added. Representatives for Florida's House speaker and Senate president did not immediately respond to inquiries Wednesday. ___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on under covered issues.

Liberal Democrat The Late Diane Feinstein: Don't be LIKE DIANE Why do gun enthusiasts all do the “trigger discipline” ? Why? Because you never have your finger on the trigger, ever, until you are on target and ready to pull it. The Rules of GUN SAFETY 1.) Treat all firearms as they are loaded. ALWAYS 2.) Never point the firearm at anything you do not wish to destroy. EVER. 3.)Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target, 4.) Always be sure of your target and what's beyond it. This is taught so that you do not hurt or kill someone. Trigger discipline is a fast an easy thing to see if someone at least has some idea of gun safety. Diane Feinstein another liberal (deceased) who knows nothing and continued to spout her righteous thoughts about firearms and knew nothing. (see top picture) If you will look closely, her finger is on trigger, drum magazine is loaded, bolt is closed, and safety is off. There is no way to tell that she is not about to shoot a poor person off screen to her left. Diane Feinstein, a famous antigun senator, does not know even basic gun safety. I have seen literal children handle guns with more safety than this. What worries me is that you think this is posing. This is not to be “badass”, this is so that you do not shoot someone by mistake. What is funny is if you go to any range you can tell who hunter or sport shooter is. Because trigger discipline is habit, not posing, you will see men holding drills with trigger discipline. We teach this all the time with his drills. This is muscle memory. Look for people holding a firearm unsafe. Make it a teachable moment. It may save there life or a family member. Only when you’re ready, and on target should you touch the trigger.

I am teaching a course on how to disarm a gun owner. It is not a self-defense class but is geared towards firearms confiscation. How much should I charge? From an avid reader of many websites, including mine, his thoughts on disarming a lawful CCW person . Gregg Kielma say's, "If I could locate the jurisdiction you lived in sir, I'd report you and this post to them" . Continues Kielma an FFL and Instructor of Firearms , “for the individual teaching this please don’t. It’s not up to you to disarm a lawful CCW person that is for law enforcement not you sir. This truly boarders on insanity. Nothing good will come in this situation. Let’s Take a Look I open carry my pistol, a Canik Rival with an 18 round magazine and optics mounted. I don't conceal this, and I never keep a single round even in the magazine, let alone in the chamber. I simultaneously carry my Taurus gx4 XL concealed, loaded, and chambered, in my waistband. The second anyone ever reaches for my open carry gun; they will be surprised when I don't stop them from taking it. They will be even more surprised when I aggravate them to shoot me. And assuming they pull the trigger, they will be most surprised to find the gun was never loaded, but the one I am currently shooting at their head is. I honestly doubt you could teach someone how to punch their way out of a paper bag. But assuming you can find people even more ill-informed then yourself, please let us know ASAP so we can report you to the FEDs.

Considering Concealed Carry? Be Safe, Be Smart, Be Ready—Here’s How and WHY Tactical K Training and Firearms Kielma says, as a firearms instructor, CCW and your training must go hand in hand. Repetition with your carry firearm is critical. Holsters are critical. Holster placement is critical. Your weapon of choice is critical. Train with me and we can put a plan together that fits your lifestyle and comfort. You must be trained and prepared! NOW: LET’S TAKE A LOOK Carrying a concealed weapon is a serious responsibility that goes beyond simply owning a firearm. It means choosing suitable gear, training until actions are smooth, and keeping a clear head when situations turn tense. The right holster fits your body, hides the gun, and lets you access it safely. Good practice builds good habits. Carrying a concealed weapon is a serious responsibility that goes beyond simply owning a firearm. It means choosing suitable gear, training until actions are smooth, and keeping a clear head when situations turn tense. The right holster fits your body, hides the gun, and lets you access it safely. Good practice builds habits, so you don’t freeze or act on impulse. Equally vital is mindset: knowing when to avoid danger, when to seek help, and how to keep bystanders out of harm’s way. Learn your local laws, store your gun safely, and train regularly. This guide lays out foundational tools, simple drills, and common-sense rules that help responsible carriers act with care and calm. Read on to build skill, reduce risk, and gain confidence when you carry. Take Training Seriously One of the biggest mistakes people make when getting their concealed carry permit is assuming that the basic certification is enough. Unfortunately, many concealed carry classes barely scratch the surface of what it takes to responsibly handle a firearm in real-world situations. Just because you passed the class doesn’t mean you’re ready to carry. Start Slow, Build Confidence It’s easy to watch experienced shooters hit targets from 25 yards out and feel like you need to do the same. But starting at longer distances can be discouraging, especially for new shooters. Instead, begin your practice sessions up close, around five yards, and work your way back as your confidence builds. The goal is to establish good shooting habits and accuracy before adding in the stress of longer distances or rapid-fire drills. Real-World Drills In a self-defense scenario, you’re unlikely to be standing still with a perfect sight picture. That’s why it’s essential to incorporate movement into your training. Practice moving backward, side to side, or even retreating while firing. These real-world drills mimic situations where you might need to defend yourself while on the move. By practicing these techniques, you’ll build muscle memory, so you’re prepared to act quickly and efficiently when under stress. Training Is Non-Negotiable The most important takeaway from carrying a concealed weapon is that your rights come with responsibilities. Simply owning a gun and carrying it isn’t enough – you must commit to regular, meaningful training. Whether it’s live fire at the range, dry fire at home, or studying real-world scenarios, being a protector means being ready for anything. Take the time to train, because when the moment comes, there won’t be time for second chances.

GOA Wins Permanent Injunction Against Virginia “Universal” Background Checks Mark Chesnut On October 16, Gun Owners of America (GOA) announced that it, along with the Gun Owners Foundation (GOF) and Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), had secured a permanent injunction against the commonwealth’s law mandating so-called “universal” background checks. “The statute as it stands, cannot remain intact,” the injunction filing stated. “If the legislature wishes to rewrite the law to create a system that does not impose disparate treatment based on age, it may do so. At that time, a court might rightly address the question of whether it is constitutional to require a background check to obtain a handgun through a private sale. Now is not that time.” The ruling made clear, however, that it wasn’t ruling on the constitutionality of lack thereof of background checks themselves. “Let it be clear, the Court today is not holding that background checks are unconstitutional,” the ruling concluded. “That is a question for another day, perhaps another court. Today, the Court holds that the manner in which Virginia Code Section 18.2-308.2:5 is applied cannot pass constitutional scrutiny. If the Court were to merely hold the Act unconstitutional as-applied and simply sever those 18 to 20 years of age, the Court would be ignoring the constitutional deficiencies in the enforcement of the Act. After applying the Ayotte framework, the Court finds that it is left with one option at this time—that is, to strike the statute in its entirety for the reasons set forth herein. The long-running lawsuit was filed way back in 2020, proving once again that finding justice can be a very slow process. But the win also proves that dogged tenacity in pursuing right is often rewarded handsomely.

SAF Lawsuit Challenges Unwarranted Search Of High School Senior’s Truck Mark Chesnut Just because a person is known to be a gun owner doesn’t mean that authorities can search his or her vehicle at a whim without regard to Fourth Amendment protections. Most of us would agree with that statement simply out of respect for the U.S. Constitution. And, in fact, that’s the very argument the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) is making in a court battle just launched in Washington State. As background, 18-year-old Hillsboro-Deering High School senior Jack Harrington lawfully owns a handgun and sometimes keeps it in his truck in full compliance with all federal and state laws. However, he always removes the gun when he drives his truck to school. According to an SAF news release, when school authorities became aware of Harrington’s gun ownership on April 24, he was subjected to aggressive interrogation by district employees, which culminated in his vehicle being searched without consent. The school had no reason to believe Harrington brought his firearm to school, and no firearm was found during the invasive and unconstitutional search. Bill Sack, SAF director of legal operations, said that being public about exercising your private rights cannot be grounds for being harassed and searched on campus. “The apparent position of the school district here is ‘choose to exercise one right, give away another,’” Sack said. “That’s just not how it works. If simply being a gun owner is legal justification to be harassed and searched by authorities, what would stop them from submitting gun owners like Jack to searches every day? And what’s their proposed solution to avoid that abuse, that he sells his privately owned firearm?”












