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Politics & Government

Cracking The Code: Shoot!

Rye's city code and how it affects firearms

It's a good idea that Rye has a number of laws about the proper use of firearms. Of course, there's a paradox here. Because when someone is holding a gun on you, they pretty much get to make up their own laws.

The stuff on the books pretty much pertains to what happens to that person after they've pulled a gun. While they have it, just do what they say. Yes, I know it must be awful to dance as a guy shoots at your feet and makes you sing "Cotton Eyed Joe."

What a terrible song!

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In the meantime, here's what we do about guns in these here parts.

The rules about gun use were adopted by the Rye City Council in 1945. I think right after everybody had watched an old Jimmy Cagney movie.

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Why else would they keep making references to guns as "gats," "roscoes" and "heaters"? It takes half the day just to get through this section alone.

Probably first, in terms of importance, is about illegal "Discharge." Which says, "the willful discharge of firearms is prohibited" without a permit.

Even after you get a permit, you really can't just whack anybody you want. For instance, you can't shoot a guy who's robbing a store. But apparently, you can fire at someone who won't stop singing "Womanizer." 

That vote was unanimous, by the way.

Now, in Rye Brook I believe the 'illegal discharge' act also pertains to the dumping of toxic waste, so double-check. But I think the "Womanizer" law will hold up nicely there, too.

Next in the order is the "Use of Terms" which defines what a "firearm" is. A lot of people think this "terms" business has to do with what you call someone right before you shoot them. Which according to the survey, doesn't mean all that much to most folks.

Still, a "firearm" is "any weapon which expels the charge by the combustion of powder...and includes a pistol, revolver, gun or rifle."

At the time the laws were written, the City Council thought gun technology would really progress by the 21st century. It's nice to know they were thinking ahead, but you probably don't have to pay attention to that law about "Death-Rays."

Still everyone appreciates the effort.

As you might imagine, there are a fair number of "Exemptions" in Rye's gun laws.

These laws don't necessarily apply to "policemen," other "duly appointed peace officers," and, anachronistically enough, "Sheriffs." Unless, of course, they're chasing "Ornery varmints." In which case they can apparently "shoot the whole crummy kit and caboodle of them!"

And then go to a barn raising.

This is all pretty true. And also true? That's the last time the City let anyone make the laws who also wrote for "The Lone Ranger Show."

Finally, there are the penalties for illegally discharging a firearm in Rye. And Rye Brook.

According to the laws, you can be charged up to $250 per offense, or up to 15 days in jail. Or says that western writer, the "hoosegow." 

There seems to be some controversy about whether you get to choose the 15 days or the $250. I don't know if it works like that.

Then again, if you show up at court with a gun? You might be able to select one or the other. Just remember, if they should give you the money, just tell them, no funny business with the dye-pack.

I speak from experience here. It's been a year for me. And I have to tell you, my face is still a just a little too purple its own good.

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