Westlake Police Dept.
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We reported yesterday on a man who was arrested in Ohio after carrying a satchel full of guns, ammo, and knives into a late night showing of The Dark Knight Rises. Today, his lawyer explains why he did it.

According to his attorney, 37-year-old Scott A. Smith had no intention of hurting anyone in the Cleveland area theater when he carried in all those weapons. He simply felt the need to protect himself in the wake of the Aurora, Colorado, Dark Knight shooting spree. Sounds legit.
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He was taken into custody after a night manager at the Regal Cinemas in Westlake, Ohio, noticed his satchel. A nighttime security guard who also happened to be an off-duty cop stopped Smith and asked to inspect his bag. At first, all he showed the manager was some medical supplies in the bag. Later, upon closer inspection, Smith was found to be carrying a loaded 9 mm Glock with two extra magazines and three knives, in addition to a knife he had on his person.
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Police searching Smith’s home found additional weapons, including six pistols, shotguns, rifles, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Protective gear was also found in the form of multiple bulletproof vests.
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There are several additional disturbing facts about this case. Smith was in the possession of firearms despite his being dependent on medication. While the exact medication has not yet been disclosed, police feel that it is something severe enough that he shouldn’t be allowed to possess firearms. In addition, Smith was a washout from the Army, being discharged after only one month at basic training in Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. While he has no criminal record, all of these facts add up to a disturbing picture.
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Smith is expected to be indicted on weapons charges, but no specific charges have been made public yet. Police did say that they may pursue charges against Smith for having weapons under a disability. Smith is married and has an infant daughter.
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While we definitely appreciate the role the police have played in keeping the community safe, we also hope that Smith gets the help he needs, for the sake of his family.