PA: DA, Pawlowski duel over city gun law

[308Mike]

Linkarooni

DA, Pawlowski duel over city gun law
Martin urges police chief not to enforce if passed.

By Jarrett Renshaw | Of The Morning Call
September 30, 2008

Lehigh County District Attorney James Martin is urging Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski to withdraw a proposed ordinance requiring gun owners to report lost or stolen guns, calling it unconstitutional and unenforceable.

If the legislation passes Wednesday, when it's scheduled for a vote, Martin pledged to instruct Allentown Police Chief Roger MacLean not make arrests under the ordinance, according to a letter he wrote to city solicitor Jerry Snyder on Monday.

Any officer who makes an arrest under the ordinance could face obstruction of justice charges, Martin said in an interview Monday.

More..............

[Bill Heinbach]

'I don't understand how Mr. Martin can tell police what to do,'' Schweyer said. ''Last time I checked, Martin is not the mayor of Allentown. He doesn't even live in Allentown.''

Martin said the state's district attorneys have a legal responsibility to protect citizens from laws that are unconstitutional. ''I am the chief law enforcement official in the county -- trust me, I have the authority,'' he said.

I like that. Sounds like he's the kind of guy who'd press charges against the mayor and the council if it passes.

Can we get him as the US AG?