A man livestreaming on Facebook pulled out a handgun and displayed it on camera during the broadcast. About 15 minutes later police arrived at his location and arrested him while the stream was still running.
The situation was captured in a video clip now circulating online. In the footage the man casually produces a handgun during the livestream and shows it to viewers. You can hear his friend say, “If the the police come, it’s his. I’m on probation.”
The arrest happens on camera shortly after. Officers arrive at the scene and take the livestreaming man into custody. The exact charges haven’t been confirmed.
Law enforcement agencies increasingly monitor social media for potential threats and illegal activity. Some departments have dedicated teams tracking public posts. The fact that this was a live broadcast meant the evidence was available immediately rather than being discovered after the fact.
Brandishing laws in many states make it illegal to display a weapon in a threatening or intimidating manner. The line between legal open carry and illegal brandishing often comes down to context and behavior. Even if someone legally owns a gun they can face charges for how they handle it in public or on camera.
The most likely explanation for an arrest is prohibited possession. People with felony convictions are barred from owning firearms under federal law. Those on probation or parole often have restrictions against possessing weapons as part of their release conditions. A violation can result in immediate arrest.
Several states also restrict carrying firearms while intoxicated. If alcohol was visible or consumed during the stream that could add another potential violation.
