The original joke was funny, but the reality is that most any criminal attack--even if the victim successfully defends himself or herself--are going to leave a train wreck of problems. Even in Texas, based on what we have seen with the concealed handgun licensees that have defended themselves, the victim will be questioned, possibly arrested and charged. Attorneys will probably get involved. In many states, the next of kin of the criminal will file a suit, even if for no purpose than to get a quick $1000 or $5000 settlement to make it go away.
Self-defense with a gun is a last resort--and what will happen if you go to court may not be very just. I've talked to a number of people here in Boise who remember vividly a case about ten years ago where a businessman got into a gun battle with an armed robber, and shot the armed robber, fatally, in his shop--and was still sent to prison for manslaughter. There may have been some circumstances that no one remembers that explains this, but I for one find the apparent deterrent effect of gun ownership on crime far more comforting and helpful than the idea of plugging criminals. Clayton E. Cramer [EMAIL PROTECTED] _______________________________________________ To post, send message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, unsubscribe, change options, or get password, see http://lists.ucla.edu/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/firearmsregprof
