DOJ sues LA County sheriff over delays in gun permit processing
- The U.S. Department of Justice has reported that the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department processed only two permits out of over 8,000 applications.
- The lawsuit claims that the sheriff's department's delays infringe on citizens' Second Amendment rights.
- The DOJ seeks a permanent injunction to ensure timely processing of concealed carry licenses.
In a significant legal move, the U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, claiming that it has violated citizens' constitutional rights by delaying the processing of concealed carry weapon (CCW) permits. This lawsuit was initiated in September 2025, after the DOJ commenced an investigation into the sheriff's department due to numerous complaints regarding unreasonable delays. The investigation started in March 2025, revealing that the sheriff's department had only approved two out of over 8,000 applications within a two-month period. The complaint highlights that this situation infringes on the Second Amendment rights of residents, asserting that law-abiding citizens should not be hindered in their ability to bear arms. The DOJ has pointed out that the average waiting time to begin processing applications is 281 days, far exceeding the California legal requirement of an initial review within 90 days. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli emphasized that for citizens living in high-crime areas, the prolonged delays in obtaining permits can jeopardize their ability to protect themselves and their families. The lawsuit seeks a permanent injunction to compel the sheriff's department to process CCW applications in a timely manner, in compliance with the law. California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has been a vocal proponent of gun control, stated his intention to push for stricter regulations after a federal appeals court temporarily blocked the implementation of a law banning firearms in most public spaces. This backdrop of shifting gun laws in California adds complexity to the current case, as it raises fundamental questions about the interpretation of the Second Amendment amidst ongoing debates about gun control. Overall, the DOJ's actions reflect a mounting pressure on the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to address the issue of delayed permit processing and honor the constitutional rights of residents, as any continued inaction could further provoke scrutiny and legal challenges. As this lawsuit unfolds, it may set significant precedents for gun rights and regulations in California and beyond.