Four officials approved to carry guns sworn in at Seminole County Tax Collector's Office

LAKE MARY, Fla. — Four officials who are allowed to carry guns were sworn in at the Seminole County Tax Collector's office Thursday.

The deputy revenue officers are fully trained in multiple workplace violence and active shooter situations—as well as their normal job duties.

9 Investigates: Seminole County tax collector claims predecessor abused system

Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg said in June that he and his deputy tax collectors are exempt from a state law that prohibits employees from carrying a gun while performing their duties.

"Being in government, not everyone loves the tax collector," said Greenberg.

Read: Seminole County tax collector employees can carry while working

Greenberg said state law considers his deputy tax collectors, "revenue officers." He said the move is justified because his office is like an airport with so many people coming and going.

According to the Seminole County Sheriff's Office, there has not been a burglary or robbery incident at any of the county tax collector's offices in the last five years.

Reaction to the tax collector's decision has been mixed.

"I don't know why he thinks we need guns here. I just don't understand it," said Vicki Capenger, who lives in Seminole County.

"As long as they are qualified and know what they are doing with a weapon, I think it's a great idea," said Martin Smith, a Seminole County resident.

Cox Media Group