Man sues over Columbia gun ban after Confederate flag debate

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A Lexington County man is suing the City of Columbia over an emergency ban on guns around the Statehouse that was part of the Confederate flag debate.

The lawsuit filed Thursday by Walid Hakim says the ban is unconstitutional and potentially dangerous.

The city council enacted the ban July 9, a day before thousands gathered at the Statehouse to watch as the Confederate battle flag was removed. Weapons already are prohibited at the Statehouse complex, but city leaders said they acted to safeguard against violence during protests near the grounds.

The temporary ban prohibits people from carrying guns within 250 feet of the Statehouse.

Hakim says he has a concealed weapons permit and now cannot protect himself near the Statehouse.

The lawsuit was first reported by The State newspaper.

___

Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP