Police officer is told no firearms allowed at pizza place

A Yuma police officer in full uniform went into a pizza shop looking to eat dinner but left after being told their weapons, a vital part of their uniform, were not allowed inside.

This incident happened Thursday around 5:30 p.m. at the Peter Piper Pizza on Pacific Avenue and Palo Verde Drive.

Peter Piper Pizza said it was all a misunderstanding. They claimed the employee was not aware of the firearm policy and released this statement to News 11.

“We’re aware of the incident that occurred in our Yuma, Ariz. location on Thursday, January 24 involving an armed police officer who was asked to leave our restaurant by an employee who wasn’t aware of our firearm policy. We permit all law enforcement personnel to carry their firearm while visiting our restaurants, whether they are in uniform or plain clothes. Officers in plain clothes are simply required to show their badge and picture ID before entering with a firearm. The employee in question, as well as all of our employees, will be retrained on this important policy. We appreciate and fully support law enforcement and everything they do to protect and safeguard our communities. We have expressed our sincere apologies to the officer, and look forward to continuing our relationship with the Yuma Police Department.”

Yuma police said they have already been in talks with the company who have since apologized.

“They have let us know it is not their policy in reference to law enforcement officers in uniform. We are absolutely welcome in there any time we want to. It’s kind of a like a training issue as far as wordage goes on certain rules,” said Sergeant Lori Franklin, public information officer.

The Yuma Police Department said that when an officer is not in uniform, it is their choice if they want to carry a weapon.