Gun Group Gives George Zimmerman $12K To Buy New Gun

An Ohio gun group pledged to buy George Zimmerman a new gun after learning that the weapon used by the former defendant to shoot and kill unarmed teen Trayvon Martin would not yet be returned to him.

The Buckeye Firearms Foundation’s spokesman Ken Hanson told the AP that the Ohio gun group planned to replace Zimmerman’s gun after it learned that the weapon was still being held by authorities. Hanson and the group argued that Zimmerman’s right to his property had been violated and that in response, the BFF would be buying him whatever he wants to be up and shooting again as soon as possible — including gear and a flashlight.

In a somewhat unpalatable update, however, Hanson revealed that more than $12,000 had been raised to buy Zimmerman a gun, or (we imagine) guns, but the gun group head also indicates that the organization doesn’t care how he spends the money. Which kind of makes it look like a bounty for killing an unarmed minor, and is very hard to wrap one’s mind around comfortably.

Hanson said:

“The Department of Justice refused to return him his gun, and he’s in need of protection… The money is intended to be used for anything he needs to defend himself or his family. He has complete discretion on how to use the money.”

Before sending George Zimmerman a $12,000 check, the Ohio gun group claimed:

“Moreover, based on statements he and others have made recently,Holder hopes to use this as the first step toward renewing this administration’s attack on gun rights…. George Zimmerman has every right to get his property back… And if Eric Holder chooses to deny Mr. Zimmerman that right, Buckeye Firearms Foundation will remedy the matter by purchasing a NEW FIREARM for him, including a holster, flashlight, and any other gear he wants.”

The Ohio gun group’s $12,000 check to George Zimmerman is scheduled to arrive today.