U.S. Probation Officer Is Fined For Bringing Handgun Into Canada

A California probation officer thought he could bring his pistol into Canada without difficulty because of his job.

He was wrong.

Michael Adams of Auburn said Thursday that while waiting to go through Customs after crossing to Victoria via ferry from Port Angeles, Wash., he saw a large sign warning that bringing handguns into Canada is not allowed.

“Because I’m a peace officer, I chose to think that even if they took exception to my gun, it wouldn’t cause a difficulty,” he said.

His plea for leniency didn’t cut it with Victoria Customs officers - especially because the 9-mm handgun was found loaded, ready to fire, in a gym bag within arm’s reach of Adams’ three children.

Adams was charged with gun smuggling and fined $1,250. He was also assessed $1,140 in civil penalties and taxes and his weapon was confiscated.

Adams said he won’t be returning to Canada.

“It left a bad taste in my mouth,” he said.

Adams said he needs the handgun for his job as a probation officer in the small town north of Sacramento.

“I’m a peace officer, sworn and lawfully authorized to carry weapons in the course of employment,” he said. “That’s why I had it with me.”