Guns In Bars Sponsor Arrested

A Tennessee representative who sponsored a bill in 2009 to allow guns in bars was recently arrested on charges of drunken driving and possession of a gun while under the influence.

Rep. Curry Todd was pulled over in Nashville Oct. 11, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by the Tennessean. He allegedly failed a sobriety test and refused to take a breathalyzer.

The arresting officer noted in the affidavit that upon examination of Todd’s vehicle, “a loaded Smith & Wesson 38 Special was discovered in a holster, stuffed in between the driver seat and the center console.

“The subject was obviously very impaired and not in any condition to be carrying a loaded handgun.”

Todd’s legislation allowed permit holders to carry weapons into establishments that serve alcohol, as long as they don’t drink. The bill faced backlash from some restaurant and club owners in the state who feared guns and bars would prove a dangerous combo. A judge overturned the law soon after it was enacted.

Adam Dread, a former city councilman who helped challenge the legislation, told the paper Todd’s arrest proves “guns and alcohol don’t mix.”

“Paging Dr. Karma,” he said. “You’re innocent until proven guilty, but if he was drinking alcohol and had a loaded gun on him, that was our exact concern.”

Todd’s gun was seized and he was freed on a $3,000 bond, the Tennessean reported.