St. Louis couple charged with felony over unlawful weapons

A St. Louis has been charged with felony unlawful use of a weapon for brandishing guns during civil rights demonstrations outside their mansion last month. St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner announced charges against Mark and Patricia McCloskey on Monday, saying they could face an extra charge of fourth-degree assault. The couple's attorney called the charges "disheartening" and maintained that no crime had been committed during the June 28 incident. I , along with my clients, support the First Amendment right of every citizen to have their voice and opinion heard," attorney Joel Schwartz said in a statement. "This right, however, must be balanced with the Second Amendment and Missouri law, which entitle each of us to protect our home and family from potential threats." The couple, both in their 60s, made national headlines last month when they waved their guns at protesters in a now-viral video. The McCloskeys said they came outside after hearing commotion caused by hundreds of protesters who were marching past their home to speak out against police brutality against black people. The couple said they pulled their firearms, a handgun and a long gun, after seeing people break through a gate with “No Trespassing” and “Private Street” signs posted on it. Their story sparked debate on both sides of the political spectrum with some saying they had every right to defend private property and others accusing them of racism.