The New York Daily News says the number of celebrities, millionaires and high-profile athletes authorized to carry a concealed weapon in the city is growing. The list includes singer Marc Anthony, actor Robert De Niro, radio host Howard Stern, Donald Trump and his son, artificial-heart inventor Robert Jarvik, Mets third-baseman David Wright and Martha Stewart’s daughter, Alexis. “We have seen an increase in celebs seeking their own permits,” said John Skylar Chambers, a lawyer who helps get gun permits. “They can get their own security, but with the Internet, it is much easier to find people. They don’t want to find someone on their lawn at 5 in the morning.”
To get a permit, applicants have to prove a documented threat or that they routinely carry large amounts of cash or valuables. While experts say the number of celebs allowed to carry guns is on the rise, the number of overall permits issued in the city this year is down from last year. There were 2,145 carry permits issued last year compared with 2,093 this year – a dip of about 2.4%. Gun permits aren’t easy to get. “The NYPD is extremely thorough in their investigation,” said divorce lawyer Raoul Felder, who has a permit to carry. “In other states, you fill out a form, swear you are not a lunatic, and you get it.”