Kentucky softball team forges ahead with AR-15 rifle raffle

LAWRENCEBURG, Ky. – An under-10 girls’ softball team is the latest entity to attract attention for a fundraiser raffling off an AR-15 assault rifle.

Fully Loaded Inc. owner Kenny Barnett tells the Lexington Herald-Leader the winners of the Central Kentucky BatCats’ raffle will have to pass background checks to claim the AR-15 or the semi-automatic pistol that’s also being offered. Barnett says his store has facilitated multiple such fundraisers, which usually pull in at least $5,000 for youth softball teams.

While some organizations across the county have cancelled or apologized for similar fundraisers in the wake of the Parkland, Florida, shooting that left 17 dead, a Missouri youth baseball team is also forging ahead with its raffle.

BatCats Coach Kevin Beasley says he’s heard some complaints, but the majority of feedback is supportive.

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Information from: Lexington Herald-Leader, http://www.kentucky.com