Shelby County State's Attorney Addresses Wearing Masks While Carrying Firearm

Shelby County State’s Attorney Gina Vonderheide Friday announced that her office has received inquiries regarding whether an individual wearing a mask while carrying a firearm would be prosecuted for the offense of Unlawful Use of Weapons.

The Illinois Criminal Code makes it a Class 4 felony for anyone to carry a weapon on his or her person while “masked in such a manner as to conceal his or her identity.”

Vonderheide said, "I want to emphasize that the circumstances of each case can vary. However, protecting our communities from Covid-19 certainly is important. The Shelby County State’s Attorney will not prosecute a citizen, otherwise acting in a lawful manner, who is carrying a weapon pursuant to a valid concealed carry permit, while masked to prevent the spread of Covid-19. My office would not attempt to penalize citizens who are lawfully exercising their Second Amendment right while, at the same time, observing health and safety measures.

Vonderheide said, "My wish is that all our Shelby County citizens will use common sense and will remain in good health."