Concealed-carry applications surge in Pa. since Paris attacks

WEST CHESTER, Pa. (WPVI) -- In the aftermath of the terror attacks in Paris, some Pennsylvania counties have seen a sharp surge in concealed-carry gun permit applications.

That includes Chester County, where the sheriff's department has seen a flurry of activity as requests have doubled.

Images of the horrific attacks have spurred some people, like Gary Gallagher of Spring City, into action.

"It's on the way over here. I'm sure of it," Gallagher said.

Sheriff Carolyn Bunny Welsh said the interest is directly related to the terror attacks.

"We normally would process up to 100 applications. This week we have processed 200 applications, and I have a waiting room full of people," she said.

Two sheriffs in western Pennsylvania - in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties - have seen the same kind of surge in applications for permits to legally carry concealed handguns.

Welsh says it's no surprise.

"People are feeling vulnerable and they feel they need to defend themselves," she said.

One thing to note: It takes a $20 fee and up to 45 days to get the application processed.