Overview

• The U.S. Department of Justice announced a formal investigation into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on March 27, 2025, citing potential violations of residents’ Second Amendment rights.
• The investigation stems from lawsuits and a 2023 federal court ruling that found the department imposed undue delays on concealed carry weapon permit applications.
• Federal officials are scrutinizing whether long wait times, high fees, and restrictive practices create unlawful barriers to obtaining permits.
• The DOJ has criticized California’s restrictive firearms laws, claiming they conflict with recent Supreme Court rulings that reinforce individual gun rights.
• The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has not yet responded, while local officials emphasize balancing public safety with constitutional protections.