Some LEOs may not be permitted to OC, as a condition of employment, while off-duty. Sets a bad example I guess to the little people.
I'm wondering if this was the case with my most recent LEO encounter. I was not told to cover up, but for some reason the deputy felt the need to give me a lecture about OC and how "we don't need any John Waynes" out here.
I didn't say anything, as he quit lecturing in short order and had not ordered me to conceal. Continuing to pursue the point would have served no purpose. I did want to lean my body over and look down at his hip and say "
....really???" but I think the sarcasm would have went over even less well than getting into an argument. I felt it best to at least do my part in maintaining an atmosphere of respect.
Now reading this, I maybe wonder if he is not allowed to OC while off-duty. All he said concerning that was "he didn't want anyone to know he was a cop" when he's off duty.
Well, now, three key points:
You live in a very low-populated area of Indiana. Everyone knows everyone. With or without your uniform, people still know who you are and what your profession is.
Openly carrying a gun does not make you a cop.
What is best for you is not best for me.
~
Perhaps he was just upset at his Sheriff's irrational rules for his deputies. In the county where I live, the current Sheriff wants his deputies, full time and reserves, to carry at all times, in whatever manner they feel comfortable with.