Salisbury gun show officials hire security amid widespread thefts

SALISBURY, N.C. — Local gun shows are putting an emphasis on security after nearly 50 guns were stolen at a show in Greensboro.

The former JC Penney in the Salisbury Mall is being transformed this weekend into the Salisbury Gun and Knife Show.

Thousands of people from across the state are expected to be in Rowan County to buy, sell and trade.

"A lot of the dealers, this is their livelihood," Brandon Cupp, organizer of the gun show, said. "It's a lifestyle, it's Friday, Saturday, Sunday gun show and then reorder Monday."

This is Brandon Cupp's 10th year in charge, and this year he's not letting his guard down

Last week, Greensboro police said 46 guns were stolen overnight at a similar show in the coliseum.

"My jaw hit the floor," Cupp said. "Unbelievable."

But in Salisbury security will be different.

In Greensboro, two unarmed security guards were in charge of keeping an eye on everything.

Cupp said this weekend Rowan County sheriff's deputies will stay with the merchandise 24/7.

As soon as the first dealer arrives at the show, deputies will be inside the building and won't leave until the last dealer does.

Channel 9 has reported extensively on gun thefts.

Last year, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents said stolen guns are funneled via highways from southeastern states to the north.

Cupp said everything will be tied down this weekend for extra protection.

He's confident what happened in Greensboro won't be repeated in Salisbury.

"With the law enforcement presence it's different," he said.

No arrests have been made in Greensboro. There is a $10,000 reward for information.

The Salisbury Gun and Knife show runs Saturday and Sunday.

Cox Media Group