Paul Birdsong

Philadelphia’s gun carry license revocations increased nearly 2.5 times over five years, with 2,200 revoked in 2023 compared to over 800 in 2021. The Justice Department is investigating whether vague criteria were used, while a local group, the Black Lion Party for International Solidarity, had licenses revoked after a verbal clash with police. A proposed bill aims to bar revocations based on 'character and reputation.'

The Black Lions, a group inspired by the Black Panther Party, had their gun licenses revoked by Philadelphia's Police Department, which cited public safety concerns. Group members, including Chairman Paul Birdsong, argue the revocation violates their constitutional rights and are challenging it in court. Two members had their licenses reinstated after evidence showed they were not involved in a disputed January 31 incident.

Philadelphia’s gun carry license revocations increased nearly 2.5 times over five years, prompting a federal investigation into the criteria used. The Black Lion Party for International Solidarity, a group conducting armed patrols, had several members’ licenses revoked after a clash with police, with their attorney alleging discriminatory tactics. A proposed Pennsylvania bill aims to prohibit revocations based on 'character and reputation,' criticized as vague.

The Black Lion Party for International Solidarity, a group patrolling Philadelphia with firearms to protect the public from ICE and police, faces gun license revocations by the city's Police Department. The department cited public safety concerns during a January 31 encounter, while the group claims the decision violates constitutional rights and is retaliatory.