Gun Sales Up 700 Percent In Ferguson Ahead Of Grand Jury Decision


Gun sales in Ferguson, Missouri, have increased at an astonishing rate, as local authorities and residents await a grand jury’s decision on whether or not to indict Officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of unarmed teenager Michael Brown.

According to the Daily Mail, Metro Shooting Supplies in nearby Bridgeton has reported a 700 percent increase in sales over the last week. Owner Steve King notes that he has sold 250 guns, far more than the 30 to 40 firearms he retails in an average week.

“We’re selling everything that’s not nailed down,” he said.

“Police aren’t going to be able to protect every single individual. If you don’t prepare yourself and get ready for the worst, you have no one to blame but yourself.”

King was also direct in stating why gun sales have increased at such a staggering rate.

“These people are afraid,” he asserted.

“One hundred percent of them are buying because of Ferguson.”

As the Washington Post observes, many businesses in Ferguson and Clayton have been boarded up as the protests expand to include much of the surrounding region. Clayton is home to the prosecutor’s office and other county government buildings. The FBI has reportedly warned law enforcement agencies across the country that it is likely the grand jury verdict will lead to violence.

On Tuesday, a report surfaced alleging that Ferguson police officers and their supporters were urging residents to purchase guns. As the Inquisitr previously reported, the report centered around online Ferguson police forums, where commenters claimed to be law enforcement officers, asserting that police leadership and politicians have “neutered” the force.

“If you do not have a gun, get one and get one soon. We will not be able to protect you or your family,” claimed one commenter on the St. Louis Cop Talk forum.

“I’m serious, get a gun, get more than one, and keep one with you at all times,” another urged.

Law enforcement officials have signaled that an announcement from the grand jury is likely to come either later this week or over the weekend. Earlier this week, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency, allowing him to mobilize the National Guard in an effort to keep order.

In addition to skyrocketing gun sales, a siege mentality has taken hold in Ferguson, echoing the tense standoffs that marked the days after the shooting.

[Image: iStock/Thinkstock via KRVN]

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