by Leah Justice
leah.justice@tryondailybulletin.com

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office recently released data on gun permits issued during current Sheriff Donald Hill’s tenure, which began in November 2008.
There has been 865 new concealed weapons permits issued with 303 concealed weapons permits being renewed since the end of 2008, according to the sheriff’s office.
There were also more than 2,000 handgun purchase permits issued during that same time period.
Sheriff Hill said the high number aren’t surprising considering tragic shootings occurring across the country over the last several years.
“It does not surprise me to see these numbers,” Sheriff Hill said. “There certainly has been a lot of media coverage on the issuance of permits in the wake of several tragic shootings. People certainly have a right to protect themselves and many opt to purchase weapons as one of those avenues of protection.”
Gun permits are available for purchase and approval by the sheriff’s office. To apply for a handgun permit purchase, visit the sheriff’s office, located at 40 Ward St., Columbus. The office is open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday for applications. Applications must be notarized with a $5 per gun permit fee required. Paperwork may take up to two weeks to process before approval.
Prior to applying for a concealed weapons permit, the applicant must complete a state mandated concealed weapon safety course. The application, also available at the sheriff’s office, must also be notarized. Concealed weapon permit includes a $90 fee charged for new applicants and a $75 fee for renewal permits. After being notarized, concealed weapon applications can be returned to the sheriff’s office on a Tuesday or Thursday between 1-3 p.m. in order for the applicant to be fingerprinted. Processing of concealed weapon permit paperwork, which is done by the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, can take up to 90 days.
“Many people have had questions about the process required for either of these permits,” Sheriff Hill said. “I hope this clarifies the process and my stance on such weapon possessions. We’re here to help our citizens in any way we can.”