Fort Wayne man continuing his watch to protect students, teachers at North Side H.S.
News-SentinelFeb 27, 2018
"I'm 64. I've had a good life," the
Cowan, who is armed but stays off school grounds, also said he's not alone: Other members of the Oath Keepers and members of a group he called the "Freedom Riders" are out watching at other local schools, he said.
Oath Keepers identifies itself as a non-partisan group of current and former military personnel, police and first-responders who pledge to "defend the
A group called Freedom Riders of
A
"I care enough about my community, I am willing to stand here all day, every day, to watch over these kids," he said.
The tragedy of school shootings has been on his mind since the shooting in
"I was really ripped up about Sandy Hook," Cowan said, saying he even cried.
He decided to follow through with one of the suggestions that emerged -- do an act of kindness for each of those who died -- and he's still doing so.
At
If shooting does start, Cowan said he's going after the suspect.
"I'm willing to take a bullet to save kids," said Cowan, who was armed with a handgun Monday.
PUBLIC RESPONSE
Cowan, who said he's a longtime supporter of local law enforcement officers, said officers know him and aren't worried by his presence near
Some parents have expressed concern about Cowan being outside the school, he said, but more have voiced support.
Several people came by earlier Monday to give him a hug, food and money as a way to thank him for being there, he said.
While speaking to a
"It's about protecting what you've got," said Bennett, who has one child at
Some of those concerned about Cowan checked to see if he has a criminal history, and they found a misdemeanor battery conviction from
The probable cause affidavit filed in the case doesn't give details about what led to the incident, which was reported to police as a fight at Cass and Fifth streets. The affidavit says Cowan reportedly hit a
Gibson allegedly had punched one of Cowan's younger relatives and reportedly was getting ready to punch another young relative, so Cowan stepped in to stop him.
Cowan pleaded guilty and the court sentenced him to one year in jail, with all time suspended.
"I'm just tired of being put in a bad light when I am just trying to make sure these kids are safe," he said.
Cowan, who said he served for 472 of the 494 days Oath Keepers stood guard outside the Fort Wayne
"I want a school shooter to know there is somebody out here watching," he said.
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