New developments in weapons permit suit

BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- Several developments occurred Monday regarding the lawsuit filed by Eric Griffin of Stoddard County against local license bureau fee agent Elizabeth Rowland.

The judge presiding over the case that started the controversy about Missouri's procedures for scanning concealed-weapons permits is asking for a new judge to take the case.

Judge Robert Mayer on Monday filed an order for change of judge with the Missouri Supreme Court. The Supreme Court will now appoint a new judge to hear the case. The judge could technically be any judge within Missouri, but typically a judge from the region of the case is chosen.

No reason was given for the recusal.

Stoddard County Prosecutor Russell Oliver is plaintiff Eric Griffin's private attorney in the case. Oliver filed notices requesting depositions from numerous officials.

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon is among those named. It's unclear whether Nixon would be required to come to Stoddard County to be deposed.

Depositions also are being requested from several current and former federal officials.

Also on Monday, Oliver filed his motion for having another preliminary hearing to produce additional evidence.

He said last week the information revealed during hearings in Jefferson City showed the revenue department was aware concealed-carry weapons-permit holders' personal information had been given to the federal government on two occasions.

Griffin filed the suit after a trip to the license bureau during which he was told his documents -- birth certificate, Social Security number and concealed carry permit -- would have to be scanned by the license office to receive his endorsement.

Griffin was informed that if he did not allow the documents to be scanned, he would not receive his endorsement.

He then retained Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver as his private counsel and sued Rowland over the department's policy.

Griffin and Oliver alleged the requirement of scanning documents created an illegal hurdle for all applicants.

With the depositions phase now getting underway, no hearing is currently scheduled in the case.

Pertinent address:

Bloomfield, MO