Savannah judge considers fines for leaving guns in unlocked cars

In Savannah, Georgia, a legal challenge has emerged regarding a city ordinance that imposes fines and potential jail time for leaving guns in unlocked vehicles. Clarence Belt, a gun owner from Jesup, filed a lawsuit against the city, arguing that the ordinance violates state law, which prohibits local governments from regulating firearms. His attorney, John Monroe, contends that the ordinance unfairly targets individuals, particularly those with disabilities, like Belt, who finds it difficult to comply with the law. During a court hearing, Chatham County Superior Court Judge Benjamin Karpf did not make a ruling on whether to halt the enforcement of the ordinance but raised questions about Belt's legal standing to sue, given that he is not a Savannah resident. Monroe argued that the ordinance applies to both residents and visitors, emphasizing the need for clarity on the law's implications. Savannah officials, including Mayor Van Johnson, support the ordinance as a means to promote responsible gun ownership and reduce gun thefts, citing over 200 guns stolen from unlocked vehicles last year. The city attorney, Bates Lovett, defended the ordinance by stating it regulates vehicle security rather than firearms directly, which he believes is permissible under state law. As of mid-August, Savannah police had issued only a few citations under the ordinance, indicating limited enforcement. If the judge allows the lawsuit to proceed, it could lead to a lengthy legal battle that may set a precedent for local gun regulations in Georgia.