Gun permits in the state of Connecticut are up 90% compared to last year and many say the increase is tied to the current state of today's economy.

Local leaders say that despite the right to bear arms, they have slight differences about more guns in the hands of more people. State Rep. Charles Clemons theorizes on what's behind the increase. "I think that could be due to the economy, being the way it is, and people in fear for their safety and protection of their property."

Fairfield Police Sgt. Jim Perez agrees with Clemons, but says police departments all across the state worry about the number of citizen-owned guns.

In just one year, almost 12,000 brand new gun permits were issued in Connecticut.