Grant County sheriff supports gun rights

EPHRATA - Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones released a letter Friday supporting citizen's constitutional right to bear arms, stating legislation should focus on the mental stability and intent of the person handling a weapon.

"I am a firm believer that the root cause of our nation's incidents involving firearms is not the weapon used," Jones wrote. "The focus and the responsibility for these shootings should be on the violent and disturbed people who do the shootings."

Congressional democrats unveiled legislation last week to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, reinstating similar laws expired in 2004. Jones did not single out assault weapons bans.

"I would like to make it clear that I oppose those who would try and take away these rights. I, as your Sheriff, support the citizens of this county against unconstitutional attempts to infringe on the right to keep and bear arms," Jones wrote. "I do believe, and strongly advocate for, legislation that calls for improved background checks for gun buyers at stores, gun shows and private sales."

President Obama released plans two weeks ago to reduce gun violence, including requiring background checks for all gun sales, banning assault weapons and high capacity magazines, making schools safer and increasing access to mental health services.

"We won't be able to stop every violent act, but if there is even one thing that we can do to prevent any of these events, we have a deep obligation, all of us, to try," Obama said following the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting.

Jones wrote he had received concern from residents of Grant County on his position on gun control.

"Although we are in trying times and some perceive our rights as citizen are being tested, I can tell you with confidence that I will continue to work hard on reducing crime in our country as well as protect the rights of the citizens I have been sworn to protect," he wrote.