Gregory Kielma • April 1, 2024
Colorado Dems push sweeping gun control laws that are flying under national radar: 'Public is fed up'This is a subtitle for your new post
Colorado Govenor Jaris Polis
Colorado Dems push sweeping gun control laws that are flying under national radar: 'Public is fed up'
Story by Emma Colton
Colorado Democrats are pushing a series of gun control bills that mirror policies in liberal states such as California but have overwhelmingly flown under the radar in the media, Second Amendment experts say.
"This should be making national news as it doesn’t just impact Colorado, but the nation as a whole," Ava Flanell, a firearms instructor in Colorado Springs, told Fox News Digital. "Lawmakers are using these outrageous bills as blueprints, changing the state names and implementing them across the country at a state level because they don’t have the votes to do it nationally.
"Last year, it was Washington where they all passed, and the laws are decimating gun stores without a single positive impact on crime. Today, it’s Colorado. These same bills will show up in other states tomorrow if we don’t come together as a whole to fight this."
State Democrats are pushing a gun control blitz this year, including a bill that would ban so-called "assault weapons," which is typically understood as a semi-automatic rifle, like an AR-15; enact an 11% tax on gun and ammunition sales; and increase standards for concealed handgun training classes. Another bill would prohibit gun owners from carrying in "sensitive" areas, such as parks, banks and college campuses.
BIDEN DOJ’S GUN LAW BLUEPRINT WILL IMPACT ABILITY TO DEFEND YOURSELF: GUN RIGHTS GROUPS
The bills are under consideration by lawmakers in the state’s General Assembly, where the Democratic Party controls both chambers. The state’s governor, Jared Polis, is also a Democrat, meaning the party has a Democratic trifecta in the Centennial State.
The state’s House Judiciary Committee in March advanced a bill that would ban "assault weapons," sending the bill to the full House, where it’s anticipated to receive support from the Democratic majority.
Out of the legislation introduced this year, Flanell took issue with the state’s move to ban types of semi-automatic firearms.
"The so-called 'assault weapons' ban bill is the most concerning, but they all have tragic consequences for law-abiding citizens. The ‘assault weapons’ bill is incredibly deceptive. They want to ban not only every kind of ‘scary’ gun like ARs and AKs, but also 80-90% of semi-automatic firearms popular today, including handguns and shotguns," Flanell said.
She said the language in the bill is broad and would ban not only the guns, but also firearm features such as "a foregrip, adjustable stock, pistol grip, barrel shroud."
FEDERAL JUDGE RULES IT UNCONSTITUTIONAL TO BAN GUNS FROM POST OFFICES
"The bill sponsors claim these features increase lethality, when, in fact, they don’t. They’re merely cosmetic. A muzzle brake, which could be interpreted as a compensator, is another characteristic lawmakers have decided to make a firearm 'more lethal.' Muzzle brakes are one of the most popular features to tame recoil and are growing in popularity among female shooters, those who lack upper body strength or have physical limitations."
Antonia Okafor, the founder and president of a nonprofit firearm education group called EMPOWERED, told Fox News Digital Colorado’s moves to ban guns such as AR-15s would leave women especially vulnerable to crime.
"After seven years of training women, it is abundantly clear that women prefer an AR-15 for the defense of their home, their family and themselves," Okafor, a sexual assault survivor, told Fox News Digital.
"Despite the anti-gun rhetoric pushed by the media and gun control organizations, the AR-15 allows women to have a larger firearm without having to physically absorb as much recoil as a smaller, handheld firearm. The AR-15 makes it easier for those who have a physical disadvantage to have an upper hand against an attacker and creates a larger perimeter of protection. Simply put, a firearm levels the playing field."
The bill, co-sponsored by Democratic state representatives Elisabeth Epps and Tim Hernandez, both from Denver, defines an "assault weapon" as a "semiautomatic rifle that has the capacity to accept a detachable magazine, or that may be readily modified to accept a detachable magazine, and has one or more of the following characteristics," including features such as a pistol grip or thumbhole stock and "any feature capable of functioning as a protruding grip that can be held by the non-trigger hand.
"The bill defines the term ‘assault weapon’ and prohibits a person from manufacturing, importing, purchasing, selling, offering to sell, or transferring ownership of an assault weapon," the bill’s summary states. "The bill further prohibits a person from possessing a rapid-fire trigger activator. A person in violation of the prohibitions will be assessed a first-time penalty of $250,000 and $500,000 for each subsequent violation."
Hernandez said the bill becoming law would protect the community from mass shootings.
"The vast majority of Americans and over 80% of Democrats support an assault weapons ban and are fed up with weapons of war in our communities," Hernandez said after the bill passed through committee. "My entire childhood, I was afraid to die in school because adults wouldn't be bold enough on guns, and those fears only grew when I became a teacher and I saw my students struggle with those same anxieties. We must take action to protect our communities, especially our students, from the death and destruction assault weapons inflict on so many innocent people."
Flanell told Fox News Digital Colorado’s "anti-gun lawmakers are undoubtedly out of touch with Americans' support of the Second Amendment," citing how the U.S. recently became a constitutional carry majority nation.
"Twenty-nine states currently have constitutional carry. While over 50% of the country recognizes the Constitution, states like Colorado are going backwards," Flanell said. "Our homicide by firearm rate has surpassed the national rate for the first time in over 40 years, while states who have passed constitutional carry are seeing a decrease.
JUDGE RULES ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS HAVE GUN RIGHTS PROTECTED BY 2ND AMENDMENT
"This comes after Colorado lawmakers have already enacted gun control measures such as universal and expanded background checks, magazine capacity limits, safe storage, red flag laws, etc. And the state has even created their own Office of Gun Violence Prevention. The same trend of higher crime with more restrictive gun laws has been proven repeatedly in other states, and politicians refuse to recognize that the firearm violence occurring is overwhelmingly not from legal firearm owners."
J
ust last month, Republican Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin vetoed 30 gun control bills, including one that would have made it a misdemeanor to import, sell, manufacture, purchase or transfer so-called "assault firearms" and another that would have banned guns on college campuses and buildings owned by public universities and institutions of higher education. Democrats in that state hold control of the General Assembly but do not have enough votes to override the Republican governor's vetoes.
VIRGINIA GOVERNOR VETOES DOZENS OF GUN CONTROL BILLS THWARTING DEMOCRAT LEGISLATORS
Flanell is the founder and owner of Elite Firearms & Training in Colorado Springs, which she opened in 2013 after the death of her mother, who also was a gun instructor in the state, Flanell told Fox News Digital.
"In 2012, my mom, who was a firearms instructor, sadly passed away. I moved back to Colorado from New York City, where I had been living for eight years, to help my dad with the family businesses. A week before my mom passed away, I shot my first firearm with her instruction. At that point, I knew very little about firearms and was determined to learn as much as I could, so I could help keep my parents’ businesses alive and thriving," she said.
She told Fox Digital that from what she heard from fellow law-abiding gun owners and supporters of the Second Amendment, "the public is fed up" with the state’s push to enact further gun control measures.
"Roughly 600 people signed up to testify against the ‘assault weapons’ ban bill, and testimony was cut at 12 hours with hundreds still waiting to testify," Flanell said. "Colorado has over 2,500 federal firearms licensees, which means they have a license to sell firearms. In my opinion, every one of these people should have been standing at the Capitol fighting this as it will undoubtedly decimate their business if this law passes. Understandably, many feel exhausted by the constant assaults on their rights, but right now is not the time for any gun owners or stores to be complacent."
Yet another bill under consideration, HB 24-1310, would repeal an existing exemption and prevent school staff such as teachers from carrying on school grounds.
"Colorado law currently allows for individual school districts to determine their own armed security protocols, something that is often utilized by charter schools and rural districts across the state," Flanell said. "I’ve personally certified school employees to carry on school grounds. One particular school is located over 20 miles from their sheriff’s office. If there’s an active shooter, children and staff don’t stand a chance if they relied on law enforcement response."
Flanell cited research showing most mass shootings unfold in "gun-free zones" where criminals are less likely to be confronted by an armed good Samaritan.
The "assault weapons" ban bill, combined with a bill that would assess gun and ammo sales with an 11% tax and a bill that would prevent legal gun owners from carrying guns in areas defined as "sensitive," such as college campuses, parks and places of worship, resembles legislation signed into law in California.
CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY: 2023 SAW NEW MILESTONE FOR GUN RIGHTS
The Golden State earlier this year called on a federal circuit court to reverse a lower court’s decision on California’s ban on semi-automatic weapons after the law was found unconstitutional. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom last year also signed into law an 11% state tax on guns and ammo and another bill that prevents gun owners from carrying in areas described as "sensitive." California is the only state in the nation with the additional tax.
Washington state also went on a recent gun control blitz, with the governor signing bills into law that banned "assault weapons," enacted a 10-day waiting period to buy a gun and requires gun makers and dealers to take "reasonable steps" to keep guns from "dangerous individuals."
Flanell said the bill that would ban "assault weapons" is the "scariest" piece of gun control legislation but noted she’s watching the other bills as well. She argued the bill that would tax gun owners 11% to purchase guns and ammo would have drastic effects on lower-income Americans who want to protect themselves.
VP HARRIS PUSHES GUN CONTROL AT SITE OF PARKLAND SCHOOL SHOOTING AS VICTIM'S DAD CALLS IT 'SLAP IN THE FACE'
"Most of these proposed bills in Colorado will hurt the underprivileged the most, ensuring only the wealthy can protect themselves or express their constitutionally protected right," Flanell said. "Firearms are not inexpensive, averaging a little more than $500 each. When you add an 11% tax to that and on ammunition, it adds up quickly. Especially for someone to maintain proficiency with their firearm. They need to practice, and they can’t afford it at a time when most Americans are living paycheck to paycheck."
Flanell argued the tax is a "sin tax," adding, "self-defense is not a sin; self-defense is a human right."
"Another pending bill, HB24-1270, requires gun owners to get liability insurance," Flanell said. "Not only does this increase the cost for gun owners, but I think it will be difficult to find a company that will cover them, making the few companies that do a monopoly. As we’ve seen with banks, many merchants refuse to do business with gun stores and gun-related accessories and training, often dropping accounts without notice.
"My goal was and has always been to help people learn in a safe, fun environment, but I really wanted to be a resource and role model for women."
Original article source: Colorado Dems push sweeping gun control laws that are flying under national radar: 'Public is fed up'
Killer Olaolukitan Adon Abel Man brutally murders woman walking her dog, police say — witness says suspect added to horror afterward Carlos Garcia April 14, 2026 Says Gregg Kielma owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, 'they walk among us". Protect what's most important; you, your family and friends. Take the needed training and please do not become another statistic. Suspect Olaolukitan Adon Abel was caught on a traffic stop later and was tied to two other lethal shootings. An Atlanta neighborhood is shocked by the brutal killing of a woman simply walking her dog Monday morning, and a witness said she saw the suspect do something even more horrible. The DeKalb County Police Department said officers responded to a residence on Battle Forrest Drive at about 6:50 a.m. and found the victim with gunshot and stab wounds. 'I heard 6 to 7 shots, so I ran out the door, and when I ran out the door, I saw the lady across the street with a man standing over her.' A witness named Tiffany Williams told WXIA-TV that she made eye contact with the suspect after hearing the gunshots outside her home. "I was getting up, getting my grandbaby ready for school, and I heard six to seven shots, so I ran out the door, and when I ran out the door, I saw the lady across the street with a man standing over her," Williams said. Sign up for the Blaze newsletter "I heard the shooting, but I'm not thinking because as a mother and I'm seeing her lying there, I'm like, 'Oh my God, I've got to help her,'" she added. Williams said the suspect was pulling the victim's pants down when they made eye contact. "I saw he was wearing all black, and then he ran up the street," she added. Neighbors said the area is very quiet and that most of the residents are elderly people. Later at a media briefing that evening, the Brookhaven and DeKalb County police departments said a 26-year-old suspect named Olaolukitan Adon Abel was arrested after a traffic stop in Troup County. Police said he was a suspect, Olaolukitan Adon Abel is a subject of intrest in another deadly shooting at a Checkers restaurant on Wesley Chapel Road and was tied to the lethal shooting of a homeless person at a Kroger grocery store in Brookhaven. The DeKalb County Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death of the woman shot while walking her dog. Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!
Gregg Kielma USCCA Instructor-FFL-Gunsmith-ERT Captain-First Aid Instructor 🧭 Where Gregg Kielma Stands in the Florida Firearm Training Community Internet Community 4/12/2026 1. A Recognized, Multi Certified Instructor Kielma holds a broad suite of USCCA certifications, including concealed carry, home defense, countering mass shooters, women’s self defense, children’s firearms safety, first aid, and range safety operations. His profile shows a 5.0 instructor rating and active class schedule, indicating strong student satisfaction and steady demand. This positions him as a well-rounded, technically competent instructor rather than a niche specialist. 2. A Credible FFL and Gunsmith His Federal Firearms License (FFL #1 59 081 01 8L 57063) is active through 2028, confirming his legitimacy as a dealer and gunsmith. This adds weight to his standing: many instructors teach, but far fewer combine instruction + gunsmithing + compliance knowledge. 3. A Community Rooted Voice on Safety and Law Kielma frequently publishes guidance on: • situational awareness • lawful use of force • Florida self defense statutes • responsible ownership His posts emphasize avoidance, legality, and decision making, not bravado—an approach that earns respect among responsible gun owners. This positions him as a public educator, not just a range instructor. 4. Builder of a Purpose Driven Outdoor Training Range His private outdoor range in Parrish is designed around calm, controlled, realistic training, reinforcing his philosophy of competence through safety and confidence. Creating a dedicated training environment elevates his status from “instructor” to training provider and community resource. 5. Student Feedback and Reputation Public reviews and descriptions highlight: • patience • clarity • humor balanced with seriousness • ability to simplify complex topics • strong real world experience These traits are consistently associated with top tier civilian instructors. 6. Growing Influence Through Writing and Education Kielma publishes articles on firearms law, safety, and equipment—something relatively few local instructors do. This increases his visibility and positions him as a thought leader, not just a service provider. ⭐ Overall Standing Based on publicly available information, Gregg Kielma stands as: A respected, safety driven, legally knowledgeable firearms instructor with a strong local presence, a professional reputation, and a growing educational footprint. He is not a national celebrity instructor—but within Florida’s training community, especially Manatee County and surrounding areas, he is viewed as a trusted authority and a reliable source of responsible, law aligned firearms, first aid, FFL, range operator education.
Preparing Your Home and Business for Hurricane Season 2026 By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms 4/11/2026 Hurricane Season 2026 is almost here, and if there’s one thing living in Florida has taught us, it’s this: storms don’t give warnings that fit our schedules. They don’t care if we’re busy, traveling, or hoping this year will be “a quiet one.” Preparedness isn’t panic — it’s responsibility. It’s leadership. And it’s how we protect the people who count on us at home and at work. Kielma advises, "as someone who trains families, businesses, and community members in safety and readiness every day as an ERT Captain for my area, I look at hurricane preparation the same way I look at personal protection: layered, practical, and consistent". 1. Start With Awareness and Planning Storm readiness begins long before the first named system forms. • Review your evacuation zone and routes. Know where you’re going before you need to go. • Make sure every family member or employee understands the plan — communication prevents chaos. • Keep important documents secured, backed up, and accessible. • If you have elderly family members, pets, or employees with mobility challenges, build their needs into the plan now. A plan only works if everyone knows it and can execute it under stress. 2. Strengthen Your Home’s Physical Security Your home is your shelter. Treat it like one. • Inspect windows, doors, and garage doors for weaknesses. Reinforce where needed. • Trim trees and remove loose outdoor items that become airborne hazards. • Clean gutters and drainage areas so water has somewhere to go. • Test generators and fuel supplies — don’t wait until the day before landfall. • Charge power banks, radios, and essential electronics early. If you live in a flood prone area, elevate valuables and electrical components. Water doesn’t need much time to destroy what took years to build. 3. Protect Your Business Like Your Livelihood Depends on It — Because It Does Businesses face unique risks during hurricanes, and many never reopen after a major storm. Preparation is survival. • Back up all digital files and secure physical records. • Protect inventory and equipment from wind and water. • Establish a communication tree for employees. • Review insurance coverage and document your assets with photos and serial numbers. • Secure signage, outdoor fixtures, and anything that can become a projectile. • If you operate a training facility, range, or classroom environment, ensure all firearms, ammunition, and medical supplies are secured according to best practices and legal requirements. A business that prepares early recovers faster — and serves its community when it’s needed most. 4. Build a Practical, Realistic Supply Kit Whether at home or at work, your kit should support at least 72 hours of independence. • Water and shelf stable food • First aid and trauma supplies • Flashlights, batteries, and backup lighting • Medications and hygiene items • Tools, gloves, and protective gear • NOAA weather radio • Cash — because power outages take down card systems • For responsible firearm owners: secure storage, spare batteries for optics, and a plan for transport if evacuation becomes necessary Preparedness is not about fear. It’s about capability. 5. Strengthen Your Digital and Communication Readiness Storms disrupt communication when you need it most. • Keep phones charged and store key contacts offline. • Use group messaging or apps that work on low bandwidth. • Photograph your home, business, and assets before the season begins — documentation speeds up recovery. • Enable emergency alerts on all devices. Information is a survival tool. Treat it like one. 6. After the Storm: Safety First, Always Once the storm passes, the danger isn’t over. • Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas. • Use generators outdoors only — carbon monoxide kills quietly. • Document damage before moving anything. • Check on neighbors, employees, and vulnerable community members. • Be cautious with tools, ladders, and debris — post storm injuries are common. Recovery is a team effort. Community matters. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Prepare NOW Hurricane Season 2026 doesn’t have to be stressful. With preparation, awareness, and consistent habits, we turn uncertainty into confidence. We protect our families, our businesses, and our communities by taking action early — not when the wind is already picking up. Preparedness is leadership. Preparedness is responsibility. Preparedness is peace of mind. Gregg Kielma
How to Prepare For and Survive a Nuclear Attack By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training & Firearms 04/12/2026 Most people don’t want to think about nuclear threats — and that’s exactly why so many families and businesses are unprepared. Preparedness isn’t fear. It’s leadership. It’s responsibility. And it’s the difference between chaos and survivability when the unthinkable happens. A nuclear detonation is one of the most extreme emergencies any community can face, but the truth is simple: your actions in the first minutes and hours matter more than anything else. With the right mindset and a few practical steps, you dramatically increase your chances of protecting yourself and the people who count on you. 1. Understand the Threat Without Panic A nuclear attack doesn’t automatically mean total destruction. The impact depends on: • Distance from the blast • Size of the device • Terrain and building structure • Wind and weather patterns Most people outside the immediate blast zone survive the initial detonation. What matters next is avoiding fallout and reducing radiation exposure. Your goal is simple: get inside, stay inside, and stay informed. 2. Build a Realistic Nuclear Preparedness Plan Preparedness doesn’t require bunkers or doomsday gear. It requires clarity, communication, and consistency. Your plan should include: • A designated shelter location (home, business, or a nearby structure) • A communication plan for family or employees • A “stay kit” with essentials for 24–72 hours • A backup plan if you’re away from home Just like fire drills or active threat training, nuclear preparedness is about removing confusion before it costs lives. 3. Know Where to Shelter Your best protection is distance, density, and shielding. Best shelter options: • Basements • Interior rooms with no windows • Large concrete or brick buildings • Underground parking structures Avoid: • Vehicles • Mobile homes • Rooms with large windows • Being outdoors The goal is to put as much heavy material as possible between you and the radioactive particles settling outside. 4. What To Do the Moment You See a Flash If you see a bright flash — brighter than the sun — you have seconds to act. Immediate steps: • Turn away from the flash • Drop to the ground • Cover your head and exposed skin • After the shockwave passes, get inside the nearest solid structure Do not try to watch the blast. Do not run toward windows. Your priority is survival, not curiosity. 5. Once Inside: Seal, Stay, and Stay Put Fallout begins settling within minutes. Inside your shelter: • Close doors and windows • Turn off HVAC systems that pull outside air • Move to the lowest, most central area • Use available materials (furniture, books, concrete walls) as shielding • Stay put for at least 24 hours unless authorities say otherwise Radiation drops rapidly over time. The first 24 hours are the most dangerous. 6. Your 24–72 Hour Survival Kit This isn’t a “prepper” kit — it’s a responsible household and business standard. Include: • Water (1 gallon per person per day) • Non perishable food • Flashlights and batteries • First aid kit • N95 masks or cloth coverings • Battery or crank radio • Medications • Plastic sheeting and tape • Power bank • Copies of IDs and emergency contacts If you run a business, keep a kit on site just like you would an AED or trauma kit. 7. Communication and Information Cell networks may be overloaded or damaged. Your best tool is a battery or crank radio tuned to emergency broadcasts. Do not leave shelter until: • Officials announce it is safe • You must evacuate due to structural damage • You are in immediate danger Leadership in these moments means staying calm, staying informed, and keeping others grounded. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Long-Term Mindset - Preparedness Is Protection You don’t prepare because you expect disaster. You prepare because your family, your students, and your community deserve leadership, not luck. A nuclear attack is survivable for most people outside the immediate blast zone — if they act quickly and intelligently. That’s why training matters. That’s why planning matters. And that’s why responsible citizens take preparedness seriously. Preparedness isn’t panic. Preparedness is confidence. Preparedness is responsibility. Preparedness is survival. — Gregory Kielma Tactical K Training & Firearms
Protecting Our Homes, Businesses, and Families in Today’s Global Conditions By Gregory Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms The world feels different today. Global tensions, economic uncertainty, rising crime in some regions, and the constant flow of information—accurate or not—can leave families and business owners feeling exposed. But uncertainty doesn’t mean helplessness. With the right mindset and a layered approach to safety, we can protect what matters most: our homes, our businesses, and the people we love. 1. Start With Awareness, Not Anxiety Awareness is the foundation of all security. It’s not paranoia—it’s paying attention to what’s happening around you, understanding your environment, and recognizing when something feels off. • Know your neighborhood’s patterns. • Stay informed through reliable sources. • Teach your family or staff to trust their instincts and speak up when something doesn’t look right. Awareness costs nothing, but it prevents more problems than any piece of equipment ever will. 2. Strengthen the Physical Security Layer Whether it’s your home or business, criminals look for easy opportunities. Your goal is to remove those opportunities. • Reinforce doors, windows, and entry points. • Install quality lighting—darkness is an ally to the wrong people. • Use cameras and alarms that notify you instantly. • Keep landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding spots. Physical security is your first line of defense, and it sends a clear message: this is not an easy target. 3. Protect Your Digital Front Door Cyber threats are just as real as physical ones. Families and businesses must treat digital security as seriously as locks and alarms. • Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. • Keep software and devices updated. • Teach kids and employees how to recognize phishing attempts. • Back up important data regularly. A single click can compromise your entire household or business. Digital discipline is non-negotiable. 4. Build a Culture of Preparedness Preparedness isn’t fear—it’s responsibility. • Have emergency plans for fire, medical issues, severe weather, or intruders. • Make sure everyone knows how to call for help. • Keep first aid supplies, flashlights, and essential tools accessible. • Train your family or staff in basic first aid and situational awareness. Prepared people stay calmer, make better decisions, and recover faster. 5. Responsible Personal Protection In uncertain times, many people turn to personal protection tools. With that comes responsibility. • Seek proper training—not just in how to use equipment, but when and why. • Understand the laws in your area. • Practice safe storage, especially around children. • Maintain your equipment and your skills. Protection is not about fear or intimidation. It’s about ensuring you can defend yourself and your loved ones ethically, legally, and effectively if there is no other option. 6. Strengthen Your Community Connections Safety is a team effort. • Get to know your neighbors. • Support local businesses. • Participate in community safety programs. • Share information when appropriate. A connected community is a safer community. 7. Stay Calm, Stay Consistent The world may feel unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Consistency is what keeps families safe and businesses resilient. • Review your safety plans regularly. • Update your equipment as needed. • Keep training, keep learning, and keep improving. Preparedness is not a one-time task—it’s a lifestyle. Kielma’s Final Thoughts We can’t control global events, but we can control how we prepare, how we respond, and how we protect the people and places that matter. Safety is not about living in fear—it’s about living with confidence. When we combine awareness, training, and responsible action, we create stability in an unstable world. Gregg Kielma
Former Parrish Florida Gun Store Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms and Ammunition to Convicted Felon Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Tampa, Florida – Frank Jude Petrone, Sr. (56, Parrish) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge William F. Jung to three years and one month in federal prison for trafficking in firearms and selling firearms and ammunition to a convicted felon. Petrone pleaded guilty on August 26, 2025. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on October 2, 2024, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office notified the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives that Petrone was selling firearms to an individual he knew to be a convicted felon. At the time, Petrone was a salesperson for a licensed gun store. On four separate occasions between October 2024 and January 2025, Petrone sold the convicted felon, acting as a confidential source, four firearms and 146 rounds of ammunition. Federal law prohibits selling firearms to a convicted felon, and a convicted felon cannot pass the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. On October 17, 2024, Petrone sold a .357 Taurus International 605 Poly Protector revolver and 10 rounds of .357 ammunition to the confidential source. On November 8, 2024, Petrone sold a 9mm Sig Sauer M18 semi-automatic pistol and 57 rounds of ammunition to the confidential source. On January 2, 2025, Petrone sold a .45 TISAS 1911A1 semi-automatic pistol and 50 rounds of ammunition to the confidential source. During that transaction, Petrone also offered to sell a machinegun with an obliterated serial number. On January 28, 2025, Petrone sold a CZ Scorpion 9-millimeter pistol (not a machinegun), loaded with 29 of a possible 50 rounds of ammunition, to the confidential source. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office . It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Updated April 7, 2026
Wearing Protective Clothing and Body Armor in Public: A Practical Guide from Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma 4/10/2026 In today’s world, personal safety isn’t something you leave to chance. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we teach students to think ahead, understand their environment, and make decisions that reduce risk long before a threat ever appears. Protective clothing and body armor fit into that mindset — not as a sign of fear, but as a tool for preparedness, just like a seatbelt or a fire extinguisher. Understanding the Purpose of Protective Gear Protective clothing and body armor are designed to give you a margin of safety when the unexpected happens. They don’t make you invincible, and they don’t replace awareness, avoidance, or good judgment. What they do provide is a layer of protection that can buy you time, reduce injury, and increase your chances of surviving a violent encounter. For many responsible citizens, especially those who carry concealed, protective gear is simply another part of their personal safety plan. Types of Protective Clothing and Armor • Soft Armor (Level II, IIIA) — Flexible, lightweight, and suitable for daily wear under normal clothing. Designed to protect against common handgun threats. • Hard Plates (Level III, IV) — Heavier and more rigid, intended for rifle protection. These are typically worn in plate carriers and are more appropriate for specific roles or high risk environments. • Cut Resistant or Slash Resistant Clothing — Useful for individuals working in public facing roles or environments where edged weapons are a concern. • Impact Resistant Gear — Gloves, reinforced jackets, and protective eyewear can reduce injuries during physical confrontations or accidents. Each option has strengths and limitations. The key is matching the gear to your lifestyle, environment, and realistic threat profile. Wearing Armor in Public: What You Need to Know In most states, including Florida, it is legal for law abiding citizens to wear body armor in public. However, legality doesn’t replace responsibility. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we emphasize three core principles: 1. Blend In, Don’t Stand Out Armor should support your safety, not draw attention. Concealable options allow you to move through public spaces without alarming others or making yourself a target. 2. Know the Law While wearing armor is legal for most people, individuals with certain criminal convictions may be restricted. Always verify your local and state regulations. 3. Train With Your Gear Armor changes your posture, mobility, and heat retention. If you plan to wear it, you need to practice drawing, moving, and problem solving while wearing it. Gear you don’t train with becomes a liability. When Protective Clothing Makes Sense People choose to wear protective gear for many reasons: • Working in public facing roles • Traveling through unfamiliar or high risk areas • Attending large events • Carrying concealed and wanting an added layer of safety • Personal preference based on lifestyle or past experiences There is no single “right” reason — what matters is that the decision is informed, lawful, and part of a broader safety mindset. Kielma’s Parting Shot: It’s a Mindset, Not a Statement Wearing protective clothing or armor isn’t about projecting toughness. It’s about valuing your life and the lives of those you protect. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we teach that preparedness is quiet, disciplined, and rooted in responsibility. Armor is just one more tool that supports that philosophy. If you choose to incorporate protective gear into your daily routine, do it with intention, knowledge, and respect for the responsibility that comes with it. Gregg Kielma
What To Do If Your Firearm Is Stolen From Your Home or Vehicle By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms 4/10/2026 As responsible gun owners, we prepare for many scenarios — but few situations feel more violating or stressful than discovering a firearm has been stolen. Whether it’s taken from your home or your vehicle, the way you respond in the next few hours matters. It affects your legal protection, the chances of recovery, and the safety of your community. This guide walks you through the exact steps you should take if you ever find yourself in this situation. 1. Stay Calm and Confirm the Firearm Is Actually Missing Before assuming theft, take a moment to verify: • Did someone else in the household move it? • Was it stored in a secondary safe or case? • Was it recently transported to the range or vehicle? Once you’ve confirmed it’s truly missing, act immediately. Time is your ally. 2. Contact Law Enforcement Right Away A stolen firearm is a serious matter, and reporting it promptly protects you legally and helps prevent that firearm from being used in a crime. When you call law enforcement, be prepared to provide: • Make, model, and caliber • Serial number • Any unique markings or accessories • Where it was stored • When you last saw it • How you believe it was taken If the theft occurred from a vehicle, tell them whether there were signs of forced entry. If it was taken from your home, note any suspicious activity, break ins, or missing property. Request a copy of the police report or case number. You’ll need it for insurance, documentation, and follow up. 3. Notify Your Local Sheriff’s Office or State Agency (If Required) Some states require additional reporting beyond the initial police report. Even if your state doesn’t mandate it, notifying local authorities ensures the firearm is entered into national databases quickly. In Florida, reporting promptly is strongly recommended to protect yourself from liability and to assist in recovery efforts. 4. Inform ATF If the Firearm Was Registered on a Form 1 or Form 4 If the stolen firearm is an NFA item (suppressor, SBR, SBS, etc.), you must notify the ATF using ATF Form 3310.11 – Federal Firearms Licensee Theft/Loss Report. Even as a private owner, you are required to report the loss of an NFA item. 5. Contact Your Insurance Provider If you have: • Homeowners insurance • Renters insurance • A firearms-specific rider • A safe or equipment policy …you may be eligible for reimbursement. Provide them with: • The police report number • Photos of the firearm (if available) • Purchase receipts or documentation Insurance companies often require proof of secure storage, so be prepared to explain how the firearm was stored at the time of the theft. 6. Notify Your Local Gun Shops and Pawn Shops Many stolen firearms eventually show up in: • Pawn shops • Secondhand gun stores • Gun shows Provide them with: • Serial number • Make and model • Your contact information • The police case number They cannot legally return the firearm to you directly, but they can alert law enforcement if it appears. 7. Strengthen Your Security Immediately A theft is a wake up call. After reporting the incident, take steps to prevent it from happening again: • Upgrade your safe or lockbox • Add vehicle lockboxes if you must store a firearm in your car • Install cameras or motion lighting • Reinforce doors, windows, or garage access points • Avoid leaving firearms in vehicles overnight Criminals often return to the same location if they believe more firearms are present. 8. Follow Up Periodically Law enforcement agencies handle thousands of cases. A polite follow up every few weeks keeps your case active and ensures your information stays current. If your firearm is recovered, you’ll be contacted — but staying engaged increases the odds. Kielma’s Parting Shot: A stolen firearm is more than a loss of property — it’s a threat to public safety and a liability for the owner. Acting quickly, documenting everything, and reinforcing your security are the best ways to protect yourself and your community. Responsible ownership doesn’t end when a firearm goes missing. It begins again with how you respond. Gregg Kielma
Can Someone Accuse You of Pointing a Finger and Claim It Was a Firearm? By Gregory Kielma As a firearms instructor, I get asked all kinds of questions about what people can accuse you of, especially in tense situations. One that comes up more often than you’d think is this: “If I point my finger, a phone, or some other object at someone, can they claim I pointed a gun at them?” The short answer is yes — a person can claim almost anything. The real issue is whether that claim holds up under investigation, evidence, and the law. 1. Anyone Can Make an Accusation — That Doesn’t Make It True People report things based on: • Fear • Misinterpretation • Anger • Poor visibility • Emotional reactions Law enforcement has to respond to the report, but that doesn’t mean the accusation is automatically valid. 2. What Matters Is Evidence When police investigate a “pointing a firearm” allegation, they look for: • A firearm present on scene • Witness statements • Surveillance video • Body worn camera footage • Physical evidence • Consistency in the reporting person’s story If all you did was point a finger, a pen, a phone, or gesture with your hand, and there’s no firearm, the evidence will reflect that. 3. Intent Matters Too Most states require some level of intent to threaten or cause fear for a charge like “aggravated assault with a firearm.” Pointing a finger in a casual or non threatening way is not the same as brandishing a weapon. But if someone felt threatened, they may still call the police — and that’s why your behavior, tone, and body language matter. 4. Why These Situations Get Messy In my experience teaching firearms safety and conflict avoidance, misunderstandings happen when: • Tempers are high • People are already nervous • Someone assumes the worst • Someone wants to “win” an argument • Someone is unfamiliar with firearms and panics This is why I always teach students: your best weapon is your judgment. 5. Protect Yourself With Good Habits You can’t control what someone accuses you of, but you can control your conduct: • Avoid escalating arguments • Keep your hands visible and non threatening • Walk away when possible • Use calm, clear communication • Never mimic a firearm with your hands in a heated situation These habits reduce misunderstandings and protect you legally and personally. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Accusations are easy to make. Evidence is what matters. And your behavior — especially as a responsible gun owner — is what keeps you out of unnecessary trouble. Gregg Kielma
The Face of a Tyrant Coward: Chicago Mayor Brad Johnson **Report by Gregory Kielma**: Anti‑Gun Chicago Mayor Spends $30 Million a Year on His Armed Security Detail** Recent reporting out of Chicago has revealed a striking contradiction between the city’s political messaging on firearms and the personal security practices of its leadership. According to multiple sources, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson — a vocal supporter of some of the most restrictive gun-control measures in Illinois — is protected by an armed security detail that rivals or exceeds that of any major U.S. mayor. Estimates place the cost of this protection at approximately $30 million per year, funded entirely by taxpayers. A Security Force Larger Than Many City Units Reports indicate that Mayor Johnson’s protective detail includes up to 150 Chicago Police Department officers, a dramatic expansion compared to previous administrations. For context, former Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s detail reportedly used around 90 officers — a number that was already controversial. Johnson’s detail now surpasses that, making it one of the largest mayoral protection units in the country. To put this in perspective, only 130 full‑time officers are assigned to patrol the entire Chicago Transit Authority system — 79 stations, 146 platforms, and 335 trains. That means the mayor has more officers guarding him personally than the number assigned to protect millions of daily commuters. Taxpayer Burden and Expanding Costs While salary costs alone are estimated at $22.5 million annually, the total cost — including overtime, vehicles, logistics, and specialized equipment — pushes the figure beyond $30 million per year. This level of expenditure has drawn scrutiny, especially as the city faces ongoing challenges with violent crime, youth victimization, and strained police resources. Policy Contradictions and Public Perception The controversy is not simply about whether a mayor should have security. Public officials often require protection. The issue, as highlighted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and other commentators, is the double standard: strict gun-control policies for the public, paired with expansive armed protection for political leadership. Mayor Johnson has supported Illinois’ bans on certain semiautomatic rifles and magazine capacities, praising court decisions that upheld these restrictions as “important steps” for public safety. Yet his own security relies on the very tools and personnel that ordinary residents are increasingly restricted from accessing. Two Sets of Rules Commentary from constitutional analysts frames this as a “two‑tier theory of safety”: Protected class: public officials with taxpayer‑funded armed security Restricted class: ordinary residents facing tighter limits on lawful self‑defense tools This tension fuels public cynicism, especially in a city where violent crime remains a persistent concern. Kielma's Parting Shot The debate surrounding Mayor Johnson’s security detail is not merely about budget numbers — it’s about trust, consistency, and the message sent to the public. When leadership relies on extensive armed protection while advocating policies that limit the defensive options of law‑abiding citizens, the disconnect becomes impossible to ignore. As someone who trains responsible gun owners and emphasizes personal preparedness, I believe transparency and consistency are essential. Chicago residents deserve a clear explanation for why their mayor requires one of the largest armed security details in the nation while they are asked to accept increasingly restrictive limits on their own ability to stay safe.
