Compiled by Speakin’ Out News
Since Alabama’s permitless carry law took effect in January 2023, Redstone Arsenal has seen a sharp rise in firearm-related arrests. According to Redstone officials, 99 people have been arrested for bringing guns onto the military base since the law’s enactment, with numbers increasing each year.
Deputy Police Chief Dennis Brown told The Huntsville Times that the majority of violators are non-military personnel who commute to the base. Despite clear signage, press releases, and flashing billboards warning against carrying firearms, the arrests continue.
Redstone, a 38,000-acre Army installation in Huntsville, is home to over 50,000 civilian and contract workers but only 700 active-duty soldiers. Federal law prohibits firearms on military bases, and violations carry fines or, in more serious cases, jail time.
Brown reported that arrests rose from 17 in fiscal year 2023 to 45 in 2024, with 37 already recorded in fiscal year 2025. From 2020–2022, there were only five arrests total.
Many individuals arrested claimed they forgot the firearm was in their vehicle or misunderstood the rules when entering for errands or to pick someone up. Brown emphasized that drivers are asked about firearms at the gate and are given the opportunity to turn around—charges occur only if individuals are dishonest or fail random checks.
Brown said despite outreach, “the message isn’t getting to the right people.”
(Source: The Huntsville Times)
