HAMPTON, Va. — An analysis of crime data across Hampton Roads shows just how often law enforcement agencies across the seven cities and surrounding counties have temporarily removed weapons from an individual under Virginia’s “Red Flag" laws.

What is a "Red Flag" law?

In 2020, state lawmakers passed red flag legislation and established the creation of Emergency Substantial Risk orders, or ESRO. The legislation was passed under a Democratic trifecta, meaning the Democratic party controlled the statewide offices and General Assembly chambers.

The measure allows law enforcement to stop someone from having, buying or even transporting guns if they believe someone is a risk to themselves or others.

The law allows for a person’s weapons to be withheld for two weeks. Persons on the receiving

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