Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Hue and Cry, No Tears, No Hesitating

From Clayton Cramer (A Horrendous Mass Murder--That Didn't Happen, May 5, 2009):
They weren't going to let any witnesses get out of there alive. If you have any doubt as to whether keeping colleges gun-free zones makes sense, I think this answers the question. This student didn't draw a gun and start shooting when it looked like a robbery. When the bad guys made it clear that they were going to kill them all, he drew and fired--and probably saved ten lives.

[Emphasis mine.]

That was a mistake that could have backfired. Victims of crime don't have to pause to consider if the bad guys are there only there to rob them, or if their intention is bodily harm. If someone invades your home, shoot. Don't second-guess their intentions. That delay could have cost innocent lives, including the life of the shooter (who would have then been unable to save the lives of others).

You have a right to protect your property (your person and your possessions). Going all namby-pamby about  protecting only your person is a huge mistake.

Criminals have learned that the criminal justice system is a revolving door. The best way to reduce crime is to reduce the number of criminals and make it a one way door Criminals should know that there is a risk of death for trying. Crime is (and should be) a high risk occupation.  The criminal is willing to risk your life for your TV. He should know that the risk is mutual.  The choice to take that risk rests with the criminal, not the victim. 

Shoot.  Don't hesitate.

H/t Instapundit.