CLEO success!

ctdonath · September 3, 1999, 09:29 AM

After much studying, writing, agonizing and preparing, I finally took my Form 4 and supporting paperwork to the local CLEO (sheriff) office and asked for an appointment.

Perfect timing, smooth sailing first try. After just a few mundane questions, he signed the infamous CLEO Signoff line! with the comment that he's never been asked to sign such a form (he's been sheriff for at least 10 years).

I was totally prepared: extensive training certificates, reviews of relevant laws, firearm descriptions, etc. The only paperwork I used was Form 4 itself, and a description & photo of the AOW in question. Without actually seeing everything, methinks he could tell that I had all my ducks in a row, plus a whole flock of backup ducks.

Yay!

James K · September 3, 1999, 06:00 PM

According to what I see, many CLEOs are very reasonable; the ones that are not are simply not going to sign no matter what. Many of the latter really believe they are putting their jobs on the line if the transferee does misuse the firearm, so they are scared to sign anything. (Most cite some "policy", but the real reason is fear.) In Maryland, the CLEO is the State Police, and they deal with it as a pure bureaucratic matter, with no hassle as long as the applicant is OK on the records check.

Actually, the CLEO is not sticking his neck very far out. He only says that 1) he has no information that you will use the firearm for other than lawful purposes and that 2) he has no information that receipt or possession of the firearm would be a violation of State or local law.

The latter is mainly to cover BATF in case some law was passed recently that they don't know about.

Jim

**4V50 Gary** · September 4, 1999, 11:34 AM

Bravo! Your patience, research and diligence have been rewarded (sorry to sound like a fortune cookie). Enjoy your new acquisition when you get it.

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September 3, 1999, 09:29 AM	#1
ctdonath Senior Member Join Date: April 11, 1999 Posts: 1,904	After much studying, writing, agonizing and preparing, I finally took my Form 4 and supporting paperwork to the local CLEO (sheriff) office and asked for an appointment. Perfect timing, smooth sailing first try. After just a few mundane questions, he signed the infamous CLEO Signoff line! with the comment that he's never been asked to sign such a form (he's been sheriff for at least 10 years). I was totally prepared: extensive training certificates, reviews of relevant laws, firearm descriptions, etc. The only paperwork I used was Form 4 itself, and a description & photo of the AOW in question. Without actually seeing everything, methinks he could tell that I had all my ducks in a row, plus a whole flock of backup ducks. Yay!

September 3, 1999, 06:00 PM	#2
James K Member In Memoriam Join Date: March 17, 1999 Posts: 24,383	According to what I see, many CLEOs are very reasonable; the ones that are not are simply not going to sign no matter what. Many of the latter really believe they are putting their jobs on the line if the transferee does misuse the firearm, so they are scared to sign anything. (Most cite some "policy", but the real reason is fear.) In Maryland, the CLEO is the State Police, and they deal with it as a pure bureaucratic matter, with no hassle as long as the applicant is OK on the records check. Actually, the CLEO is not sticking his neck very far out. He only says that 1) he has no information that you will use the firearm for other than lawful purposes and that 2) he has no information that receipt or possession of the firearm would be a violation of State or local law. The latter is mainly to cover BATF in case some law was passed recently that they don't know about. Jim

September 4, 1999, 11:34 AM	#3
4V50 Gary Staff Join Date: November 2, 1998 Location: Colorado Posts: 21,832	Bravo! Your patience, research and diligence have been rewarded (sorry to sound like a fortune cookie). Enjoy your new acquisition when you get it. ------------------ Vigilantibus et non dormientibus jura subveniunt