Local mayors talk gun control

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Gun control is a controversial issue that has swept the nation. Now, both Lafayette and West Lafayette mayors are weighing in on the issue.

Last week, President Barack Obama signed 23 executive orders in hopes of battling gun violence. He called for a ban on assault weapons and ammunition magazines. He also wants background checks for everyone buying a gun.

West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis said we are heading in the right direction.

"I believe the data proves true that those who use guns and the perpetration of crime, often times have not come to the possession of that gun in a legitimate way," Dennis explained.

Across the Wabash, Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski said along with these new orders, our culture needs to change as well. He said from bullying in schools to video games, violence is a problem.

"How do we develop a culture where kids aren't abused, where there's not as much mental illness? You look at these cases, something's happened for those people to do those types of acts," Roswarski said.

Both Roswarski and Dennis said their time in law enforcement has impacted their view on guns.

"Are there new laws that would be effective in dealing with these issues? Are there restrictions that would be helpful? How do we do that and still protect the Second Amendment right? I own guns, myself. I'm a retired policeman," Roswarski explained.

"I've had a significant amount of exposure to weapons, whether they be legal or illegal. I've seen the damage and harm that weapons can do when in the wrong hands," Dennis explained.

Dennis said he agrees that assault weapons and ammunition magazines should be banned because of what he witnessed as a law enforcement officer. Roswarski said he agrees. He said it's scary to think people have access to better weapons than local law enforcement officers.