Illinois Concealed Carry News Update

Area colleges implement firearm concealed carry act

Kaylee Pfeiferling

Apr 11, 2014 6:41 p.m.

 

College campuses in Illinois are still in the process of ironing out the details of the new firearm concealed carry act that went into effect at the beginning of 2014.

The law requires schools to post a sign provided by the Illinois State Police that states the carrying of firearms into the building is prohibited. However, students can have weapons in their cars in the parking lot, as long as they have a permit. The firearm must be locked in a case, out of plain view.

"I know a lot of students are worried about what could be in these people's cars," John Wood Community College Student Stephanie Dearwester said.

As more Illinois residents take the training necessary for a concealed carry permit, area colleges and universities are doing their part to ensure safety.

"The major thing is that we've added the signage on all the entry doors that prohibits carrying weapons under the concealed carry law," Sgt. Sam Tedrow said.

Tedrow is with the campus police at John Wood Community College. Tedrow says they have a behavioral intervention team on campus trained on what signs to look for in a student that might be considered at-risk.

"There's a group of people that would monitor the situation, make contact with the student if needed and give recommendations on what should be done," Tedrow said.

In order to obtain a conceal carry permit, you must first complete 16-hours of firearms training.

Dearwester says that gives her more peace of mind while on campus.

"Knowing that there's people around me that can step up and take charge in a bad situation makes me feel pretty secure," Dearwester said.

Meanwhile, Tedrow says they'll be watching for students who may be looking to over step their boundaries.

"If someone brings a weapon away from their vehicle, they're subject to either arrest or they'll be escorted back to their car so they can comply with the law," Tedrow said.

Private universities are exempt from the concealed carry law. However, officials with Quincy University say they will be putting up the same 'no firearm' signage found at John Wood Community College.