http://www.nbcactionnews.com/news/lo...4-21727cb524f6

Conceal and Carry Permits On The Rise
by: Marissa Cleaver
23 September 2008
JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. - The number of people applying for conceal and carry permits is on the rise.

According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office more than 1,200 people have submitted applications so far in 2008.

This is the largest number since the law went into effect in 2005.

That year 1,160 people applied for permits.

In 2006, the number was cut to 687.

Then in 2007, the number rose again to 1,107.

The issue comes to light after Kansas City police say a clerk who shot and killed a would be robber has a permit to carry a concealed weapon. The shooting happened at the 7-Eleven near 27th and Van Brunt Tuesday night.

Charlie Zonko, a firearms specialist, says "Mostly that they (business owners) are concerned about armed robberies ands strong arm robberies and they want a way to protect themselves and probably one of the best ways to do that is to have a fire arm. “

“We look at it this way. We know that people have the right to protect their property and their family. This is another tool for them to use. And we think a lot of people are coming in there under those rights and trying to protect their families and that's why they want more weapons,” said Sgt. Rhonda Montgomery of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.

Montgomery says while that may be a reason, they are not sure what is behind the increase.