Philly Town Watch guidelines

[tmountjr]

IANAL, and I know most of you guys aren't either, but I am a little curious. My neighborhood is starting up a Town Watch and me trying to be a good neighbor, I'm attending the organizational meetings. Read through the guidelines and came across this gem: "When performing any Town Watch activity or function, NO WEAPONS of any kind are to be carried (or used)."

Is that legal? I mean, no one's requiring me to be a part of this, so it's not like I'm being forced to surrender my rights. Anyone have any experience with this?

[streaker69]

Their organization, their rules.

[spxnerd]

I never knew they had town watches in Philly

I'm assuming the reason is if something happens and a weapon is used, they don't want to get a bad name or scrutinized.

You can always be a vigilante town-watcher then

[gnbrotz]

What's preventing you from simply walking around the area of your own volition carrying whatever defensive items you wish?

[thefirstndsecond]

I saw the signs the other day in my neighborhood. I pay no attention to them. I don't believe a single thing in this city.

[mpan72]

I never knew they had town watches in Philly

I'm assuming the reason is if something happens and a weapon is used, they don't want to get a bad name or scrutinized.

You can always be a vigilante town-watcher then

There have been town watches in Philly as long as I can remember. You are not supposed to get involved, you are only expected to report any crimes to police.

[tmountjr]

I guess they have to make broad rules to C their As if the S hits the F. They stressed they don't want vigilantes, which most people who have gone through the necessary crap to get a LTCF, especially in Philly, are responsible enough not to do. But the presenter made sure to point out that *any* weapon (she used the example of a short club that she carries with her sometimes) is not kosher.

Streaker, I figured that was the case. I guess the abstract question is, if you believe that rights are not *granted* but *guaranteed not to be interfered with* then is it legal for any organization, private or otherwise, to require you to check your rights at the door when you join? Suppose a requirement for being in public office was that you could not vote. How long do you think that would last?

The advantage of being in a town watch organization is that the police are (supposedly) faster to respond, and your complaints are (supposedly) more credible. Does it always work that way? I don't know. I guess after the thing with Mark earlier this year I don't really have a lot faith in Philly's Phinest. On the other hand, I want to take every chance I have to try to turn around my neighborhood's attitude towards 2A rights. Saying, "No thanks, I'll just patrol on my own with my gun" isn't really going to accomplish that goal.

I dunno...lots of things to consider.

[Kodiak]

I never knew they had town watches in Philly

Yeah they watch you while you get robbed.