Stanley was challenging a Denver gun control ordi- nance that bars openly carrying a deadly weapon.

"Today, I am taking a stand against an unconstitu- tional city ordinance." he said to a crowd of 200. Stanley and his supporters were celebrating the 210th anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights.

After his speech, Stanley huddled with supporters, emerging with a holstered pistol. As he wondered aloud where the police were, three squad cars pulled up and Stanley and a supporter were arrested.

Before he was removed, Stanley called for supporters to follow his lead with regular demonstrations.

"I am issuing a public call for monthly public demonstrations in support of the Bill
of Rights," Stanley said. "The second American Revolution has begun."

Although Stanley said the "revolution" can still be a peaceful one – won with ballots, not bullets" – he said supporters must be ready for more direct conflict.

Libertarian Senatorial candidate Rick Stanley is led away after being arrested for openly carrying a loaded gun in Civic Center Park Saturday.

"We must be ready to defend our liberty with all the force at our command, if they push it that far." he said.

Stanley also reached out to militia groups, urging them to form a "Second American Revolution militia to embrace all the militias across America."

In addition to gun control laws, Stanley spoke against the "U.S.A. Patriot Act," the Bush administration's anti-terrorism legislation.

he recently enacted "Patriot Act" is a direct assault upon the entire Bill of Rights," he said. "The traitors in Washington are getting bolder."

Stanley was still in jail Sunday afternoon, and couldn't be reached for comment.

Denver Daily News photo by Colin Gibbs. (photo unavailable online)