Veteran who suffers from PTSD charged with filing false weapons permit

Rick Singelton

By Rob Alway. Editor-in-Chief.

LUDINGTON — An Amber Township disabled veteran has been charged with a felony of filing a false statement on a concealed pistol permit. Richard Singleton, Jr., 39, appeared in 79th District Court where he was arraigned in front of the Mason County magistrate. The charge is punishable by up to 4 years in prison.

Singleton was injured during a boating accident on Lake Michigan while serving in the U.S. Coast Guard in Ludington. He is 100 percent disabled and has had 18 surgeries as a result of his injuries with more scheduled. As a result of the incident, Singleton suffers from post traumatic stress disorder and depression.

Singleton told MCP that one of the questions on the permit asks about history of mental disorder. He said

Singleton told MCP that he applied for a concealed weapons permit in March. One of the questions asked if he suffered a mental disorder.

He told MCP that he did not realize that those conditions were considered mental disorders. He said he asked that the application be withdrawn but instead the Mason County Proseuctor’s Office charged him with the felony. Because Prosecutor Paul Spaniola serves on the county gun board, he has assigned Manistee County Prosecutor Ford Stone to the case.

“This is concerning for veterans who come back from service anywhere who may suffer from depression or post traumatic stress disorder,” Singleton’s attorney, Ryan Glanville said. “They could be prevented from possessing a concealed pistol. Some of these people are the most qualified to conceal a pistol.”

Glanville said Singleton, he entered a not guilty plea, misunderstood and did not mean to commit a criminal act.

“We haven’t seen any evidence at this time. It’s been my client’s position if a mistake was made it was just that, a mistake. I’m looking forward to working with Mr. Stone to come up with a quick resolution. I know that he’s a reasonable man.”

Singleton waived his right to have a preliminary examination within 14 days.