Maine’s Yellow Flag Law Usage Surges Post-Mass Shooting, Exceeding 400 Interventions in Effort to Prevent Violence

Lewiston, Maine — In the aftermath of Maine’s deadliest mass shooting, law enforcement officials have significantly increased the use of the state’s yellow flag law, aiming to prevent further tragedies by removing weapons from individuals deemed threats to themselves or others. Since the law came into effect in 2020, its application saw a dramatic rise following the horrific events at a local bar and bowling alley on Oct. 25, 2023, where 18 lives were tragically lost. From the inception of the law until the day prior to the mass shooting, police had utilized the provision … Read more