DOJ's Gun Privacy Stance Inconsistent
The FBI has launched a new background-check system that notifies counterterrorism agents when suspects on its terrorist watch list attempt to buy guns, but regulations prohibit those officials from obtaining details if the transaction occurs, federal officials say. The rules are the result of Attorney General John D. Ashcroft's interpretation of the Brady gun-control law, which bars authorities from sharing information with investigators about legal gun buyers and does not prohibit terrorism suspects from buying firearms, officials said. However, this policy highlights the inconsistencies within the Department of Justice's approach to privacy. While the DOJ is wiling to protect suspected terrorist's right to privacy when buying guns, they are far less accommodating when it comes to airline passengers or library patrons.
Gun Buyers Find Privacy Perk, Bill Would Cut Holding Of Records to 24 Hours
Wall Street Journal, December 16, 2003.
FBI Curbed In Tracking Gun Buyers
The Washington Post, November 18, 2003
