White Plains, NY (WIBX) - The Gannett newspaper that published the names and addresses of gun owners in Westchester and Rockland Counties has hired armed guards for its building.

On December 23rd, The Journal News sparked controversy with the news story prompted by the Newtown, Connecticut shooting, but has since been bombarded with negative comments from gun owners and privacy seekers.

Though there have not been any attacks on the building, there has been some fear of repercussions from the story, though the information is considered public information.

A similar request for the county's pistol permits, however, has been denied by the Putnam County Executive and the Clerk, stating that gun owners may be put at further risk.

According to LoHud.com, a suspicious powder was also sent to the office yesterday, but was later deemed safe by authorities called to the scene.

The newspaper's action's have also caught the attention of state senator, Greg Ball. Reuters is reporting that he is pushing legislation to make permit information private to everyone but police and prosecutors.

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