Reply #91: Please explain how the mere presence of a firearm endangers people

[RSillsbee]

I could go in several directions with this. If you have an ak-47 slung over your shoulder, you are most definitely intimidating other shoppers and putting them in danger.

Being intimidated doe not equal being put in danger. Please explain how the mere presence of a firearm endangers people

So wait, does the mall cop need to wait until the loony/robber/etc is actually pointing the ak-47 at patrons or shopkeepers before he draws his weapon?

Yes, the Mall Cop has to wait until the person carrying the weapon presents a credible threat of violence. Just having a weapon does not meet Colorado's thresh hold. Although there is a law against carrying a long gun w/ a loaded chamber in your vehicle. That law does give any Colorado Peace Officer the legal right to ensure that the long gun does not have a loaded chamber.

It's wrong though, the "citizen" in question was an off-duty police officer who had received mandatory firearms training.

The off duty cop was (obviously) off duty andout of his jurisdiction. He had no police authority. Also most CHP holders have more hand gun training than the police. ( Google frontsite or thunder ranch some time)