In a recent government meeting, a local resident, Mr. Polinski, made a compelling case for a pardon to restore his Second Amendment rights, citing safety concerns stemming from his remote living conditions. Residing at the end of a dirt road surrounded by national forest, Polinski described encounters with wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and moose, which he claims pose a significant threat to his safety and that of his family.

Polinski recounted a harrowing incident where a mountain lion entered a neighbor's yard, attacked their dog, and carried it away. He expressed that the risks associated with wildlife encounters make him feel vulnerable, particularly during routine activities like walking to his car. He argued that being legally allowed to own and carry a firearm would provide him with a sense of security in the face of potential animal attacks.

During the meeting, board members questioned Polinski about his past legal issues, specifically a 2014 drunk driving incident. He clarified that he had not been charged with tampering with an interlock device, which he claimed was a misunderstanding. Polinski explained that he had fallen asleep in a drive-through after a long week of work, resulting in a minor charge related to operating a vehicle with a low blood alcohol content while on probation.

Despite his explanations, the Dane County District Attorney's office reviewed his pardon application and expressed opposition. Polinski maintained that the primary reason for his request is to protect his life and that of his wife, emphasizing the need to exercise his constitutional rights in a dangerous environment. The meeting highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding gun rights and public safety, particularly in rural areas where wildlife encounters are common.