So I was eating lunch in Osaka in Lake Charles a few weeks back (on a Saturday) with a fellow firearms instructor when I was approached by a sheriffs deputy. I was open carrying as I usually do when I am trying to advertise firearms training to people. The sheriffs deputy had been sitting at the bar across the restaurant when we walked in and he continued to watch us for 20 minutes while we started eating. After a little while he disappeared outside for about 10 minutes, then re-entered and approached the 2 of us from behind. I never saw him return, I only noticed when he barked out, "Are you law enforcement?". In which I responded by saying no. Immediately, he drew his firearm on me and escorted me out to the front of the restaurant. I pulled my cell phone out and recorded the entire conversation, which Im pretty sure is the only thing that kept me from being arrested. I attempted to explain the change in the law to him that allows for open or concealed carry in an alcohol serving restaurant if you are in possession of a concealed carry permit but he would not listen. I complied with his demands to put my firearm away in the truck and returned to finish eating my sushi. Upon leaving the restaurant I made an appointment with Internal Affairs. They were of no help in the matter. When I met with them it seemed like they knew less about the law than the deputy. After being ran out of their office I had to contact the head of the Louisiana Legislative team and was able to get in contact with the guy who just happened to write and lobby the law. We ended up having to have the DA's office interpret the law. It ended up being upheld and it was found that I had done nothing wrong. According to the Louisiana Legislative team, this was one of the first incidents that have happened since the new law was passed. I have no intention of reprimanding the deputy or any intentions of the sort. The only motive I have for writing this is to inform others of the change to the law. The DA assured me that all of the law enforcement agencies in the parish would be notified of the change to the law. There were lots of different variables that happened here that shouldn't have, but I'm hoping my story will help to educate others. If someone has a link to the updated law, can you please post it?
Last edited:
