More on protection in churches

Clay County Sheriff Paul Harden

A recent article published in The Brazil Times included an interview with Sheriff Paul Harden concerning his thoughts on guns in churches to protect members and guests.

After that article was published, the sheriff did further research and shared what he had learned.

Only law enforcement officers are allowed to carry guns into schools.

Attorney Eric Somheil

Anyone who can legally carry a gun in Indiana may carry that gun into a church worship service or other ceremonies or to carry out their prescribed duties, said Eric Somheil, an attorney for the Clay County Commissioners.

The Brazil Times has learned First Christian Church in Brazil for several months has hired law enforcement services to protect members and guests during services.

Sheriff Harden said that many times deputies and police officers legally carry concealed weapons in churches and other public places.

The sheriff said he does not think Brazil is the same type of community where an intruder pulled a shotgun and killed two people in a Texas church before he was shot 6 seconds later, “but you never know,” Harden said.