Miami man arrested for bringing gun to Disney World
December 14, 2015
ORLANDO, Fla. – On Friday, Dec. 11, 2015, a Miami man was arrested after bringing a concealed firearm into Disney World. His permit was expired, Orange County Sheriff's Office reported.
A. John Gerson, 36, a Miami lawyer, was trying to walk into the Magic Kingdom when one of the park's security officers noticed a bulge in Gerson's waist. Once making the observation, the officer tried unsuccessfully to contact Gerson, according to a police report.
The security officer said that after about 100 yards, Gerson turned and made eye contact with him. Once Gerson turned back around, he took out his phone, placed it to his ear and began running.
The officer then drew his firearm and ordered Gerson to stop. After ordering the subject to stop two times, he stopped, the report reads.
A search of Gerson uncovered a silver revolver. After checking the status of Gerson's concealed weapon permit, it was revealed that the permit had been expired for 10 years.
When asked about the gun, Gerson claimed that the gun had been left in his bag and he wasn't aware that it was there. He told officers that he was merely trying to leave the park.
Gerson was subsequently arrested and held on $2,500 bond.
Florida's Concealed Carry LawsIn Florida, people cannot carry a concealed weapon or firearm unless they have been issued a valid permit from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Under Sec. 790.06, concealed weapons or firearms, include:
- Handguns
- Electronic weapons or devices
- Tear gas guns
- Knives
- Billies
Under Florida law, concealed weapon or firearm licenses are valid for 7 years from the date of issue. While such permits allow people to carry concealed firearms in many public places, that doesn't mean that it's legal to bring guns into all buildings.
In Florida, if someone possesses a valid concealed weapon permit, they cannot bring a gun into any courthouse, jail, school, polling place, federal building, municipality, airport, bar, or establishment that serves alcohol.
Are you facing weapons charges in Miami? Protect your rights – contact Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. to discuss your legal options during a free criminal defense consultation.
