KINSTON, N.C. (WITN) – As BBQ Fest on the Neuse approaches, the Kinston police department posted on social media to remind people about the laws when it comes to guns at the festival. Some people fought back on Facebook, saying it was a hit at their Second Amendment rights.
Police Chief Keith Goyette said he expects to see between 30,000 to 40,000 people at the festival.
“It’s going to be a very large festival but it’s gonna be a great time in Kinston,” Chief Goyette said.
The festival has permits that allow vendors to sell alcohol and because of this, the police department took to Facebook to remind the community of a law. Chief Goyette said this law sets limitations on whether or not guns can be brought into the festival.
For example, if you have a concealed carry permit, you are legally able to bring a firearm but not drink.
“For those who are going to partake in alcohol, you know and you well understand you’re not allowed to have a firearm, and anything on city property you’re not allowed to have a firearm,” Chief Goyette said.
However, many people were not happy and expressed their concerns. One person stated he’s not going anymore and said “If people like to go places and spend money in a city that doesn’t want to support 2nd amendment rights then so be it.”
Another person said, “Well, that’s a no-show for me.”
Goyette said people with a valid Concealed Carry Weapon permit who wish to carry can do so.
“For those who are not going to partake in alcohol, you know you do have that right to carry a firearm especially if you have your CCW permit,” Chief Goyette said.
However, he said for the safety of everyone coming out, it’s best to not carry at all.
“We’re just trying to keep it as safe as possible here at the barbeque festival,” Chief Goyette said.
If you don’t have a concealed carry permit, you cannot bring a gun to the festival at all based on the law mentioned. While Goyette said he wants everyone to have fun, those who do bring a firearm could face a misdemeanor if they’re not following the law. That could result in a fine, suspension of your CCW permit, or even up to a year in prison.