Starting an LSI chapter in Texas... Maybe.

[Heliox]

I've got a few friends who have become interested in starting a LSI chapter with me (possibly in conjunction with a related network security group). But we're kindof wary of the state laws on posession of lockpicks and more importantly, the attitude of any police officers (and those who might call the police) who might not see it as a legal hobby.

How have other groups handled lack of understanding from others? What types of venues do you meet at? At what point does the discussion of locks and bypass techniques become something that should not be for consumption within the group like the information in the advanced forums?

Specifically, I'm interested in any encounters anyone in LSI may have had with sworn Texas law enforcement (campus police maybe. Basically any LE who wears a gun)

I'm having a bit of confusion as well about the difference between showing how to bypass 95% of residential and commercial locks and restricting information on the remaining 5%

[digital_blue]

Your best bet is to speak with Doug Farre. I believe his LP101 name is... um... dougfarre. I believe he is well versed with both the legal implication of hobby lock picking in Texas, as well as the ins and outs of running a chapter in Texas.

As for my own experiences (obviously not in Texas), where I am there is no legal restriction for possession of pick tools. My chapter meets at my house. Many members have their own tools, and bring them along. Some just share my tools.

Hope this helps some. Doug will likely have more to offer.

Cheers!

db

[dougfarre]

Hey Heliox!
Its good to see some interest in the lock sporting hobby in Texas! As of now, there are no laws that restrict the ownership or use of locksmithing materials. I have had many encounters with campus and local county police regarding the use of my equipment and although many of them we upset with the fact that a college student owns locksmithing equipment, there has never been a situation where if was prosecuted or harassed.... Hope this helps.
Let me know where you are located and maybe we can meet up and talk a little more about your interest in starting a chapter!

-Doug

[devildog]

Holding meetings at a private legal residence (someone's home) will eliminate 99.9% of all potential problems...

[TAMUmpower]

Im in College Station, looking to find others in the area to start a group.

[crypto52o]

I am also in college station and would like to meet with other pickers

[Raccoon]

It was my understanding that a Texas chapter already existed..?

[digital_blue]

There is one based out of UT, but... stay tuned... 'cause there may well be another Texas chapter very soon... and a place called College Station rings a bell...

db