Justice Department's Controversial Gun Rights Probe in LA

The U.S. Justice Department initiated a civil rights investigation into Los Angeles' permit process for carrying concealed guns, a move criticized for deviating from traditional investigations. The probe focuses on excessive wait times and potential constitutional rights violations, highlighting a division between gun rights and control advocates.

The U.S. Justice Department has ignited controversy with its recent launch of a civil rights investigation into the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department over delayed concealed carry permits. Critics argue this marks a departure from traditional practices, previously focused on discrimination and police misconduct.

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the 'pattern or practice' inquiry, citing concerns over potential Second Amendment rights violations. Proponents of gun rights emphasize constitutional protections, whereas gun control advocates see the U.S.'s firearm violence as a call for stricter regulations.

The LA Sheriff's Department, facing a lawsuit for its permit processing delays, cites a staffing shortage as the main cause. With the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division now taking on gun rights cases, opponents view this as a misuse of civil rights enforcement, sparking further debate.

(With inputs from agencies.)