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I sent an e-mail to Wachovia tonight after learning of another incident on their premises involving an armed subject. It is as follows:
I will provide updates as I get them.wsweeks2 said:I have been a Wachovia customer for less than one year, and recently I have been made aware of a policy which concerns me.
As you may be aware, since May 16, 2007, there have been two incidents on or around Wachovia locations involving armed robbery attempts in Alabama and Virginia.
The first event took place in Bessemer, Alabama when William Merriweather Jr. entered the location. Mr. Merriweather wasn't there conducting business, but rather holding up the branch - and in the process taking 2 lives. Mr. Merriweather obviously ignored the signage at the entrance to the location advising that firearms are not permitted on the premises by Wachovia. The news story outlining this incident can be found at the following link: http://www.al.com/news/birminghamnews/i ... thispage=1
The second incident occured just yesterday, July 7, 2007 at the Fredericksburg, Virginia location located on Jefferson Davis Highway. This incident occured when an armed gunman attempted to rob a female victim at a Wachovia ATM located at the branch on Wachovia property. Again, the suspect apparently ignored the signage advising that firearms are not permitted at Wachovia.
As a customer who is in possession of a Georgia Firearms License, or GFL, I have undergone the necessary background check requirements concurrent with Georgia law and am permitted to carry a firearm either openly or concealed on my person in accrodance with State Law. The Official Code of Georgia Annotated, or OCGA does not prohibit me from carrying my firearm inside any banking establishment, however Wachovia policy does.
This policy is obviously one that discriminates against customers who choose to exercise their right to arm themselves for their own personal safety, and in some cases, the safety of those around them. It is obvious that those who intend to commit crimes do not follow the policy set forth by Wachovia, however this does not prevent crimes from occurring on Wachovia property. What it does however is disarm those who are not determined to or inclined to commit criminal acts.
I am requesting an official response from Wachovia in regards to the following:
1- Is there any intent to change this policy to allow their law abiding customers to conduct their banking business without having to disarm, and;
2- If the policy is not to change, will Wachovia be making a press release advising those who enter Wachovia premises armed to commit crimes that firearms are NOT permitted.
The response I receive from Wachovia will determine the future relationship of mine with the bank. Please be advised that I am also an active member of GeorgiaCarry.org, or GCO, an organization acting to reform the legislation pertinent to GFL holders and their rights. Any response from Wachovia will also be passed along to other members of GCO as well.
I thank you for your time in this matter and look forward to your response.
Regards,
wsweeks2