Crime

New Video: Gunman Fires on Responders After Killing Florida Officers

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — A man hiding in the attic of a home sparked an intense firefight with authorities trying to arrest him on a warrant Monday morning, killing two officers and wounding a deputy U.S. Marshal, police said.

More than 100 rounds were fired during the shootout, St. Petersburg Police Chief Chuck Harmon said. As of midday, the shooter was still barricaded inside the house. The marshal and officers had come to arrest the man on aggravated battery charges.

“He was somebody we wanted to get off the streets, ” Harmon said. “Who expects to walk into a house and get gunfire from the attic?”

Harmon would not identify the suspect or the dead officers.

When officers arrived at the house, they were told by a woman that the man was in the attic. The three were shot as they tried to get him out, police spokesman Michael Puetz said.

Police used a vehicle to punch a hole in the wall to get to one of the officers who later died, Puetz said.

The woman from the house is safe and with officers, he said.

The marshal was shot twice but was doing fine, Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Tom Figmik said.

Monday’s shooting is the latest in a string of shootings of police officers and comes four days after two Miami-Dade County detectives were killed by a murder suspect they were trying to arrest. That suspect was killed by another detective. The officers’ funeral is Monday.

On Sunday, a man opened fire inside a Detroit police precinct, wounding four officers including a commander before he was shot and killed by police. Authorities said the gunman walked in just after 4 p.m. and fired indiscriminately. The officers’ injuries were not considered life-threatening, said Police Chief Ralph Godbee.

And on Monday, a Lincoln City, Ore., police officer was critically wounded when he was shot during a traffic stop. Oregon State Police said the officer had pulled the suspect over for speeding.

Comments (91)

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  • reckless
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 7:44pm

    Damn those violent Tea-Partiers!

    Report Post »  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 7:50pm

      Actually I blame the alleged uptick in illegal violence to the rise in the price of Coffee!

      Report Post » RojBlake  
    • Bob_R_OathKeeper
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 8:45pm

      Thanks, now I have to make a pot of coffee. LOL.

      Report Post » Bob_R_OathKeeper  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 11:40pm

      I’ll stick with my Lapsang.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
  • Bronco II
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 7:27pm

    My thoughts and much prayers with the families and all those that put their lives on the line everyday for us.GOD PLEASE WATCH OVER THEM ALL.

    Report Post » Bronco II  
  • dontbotherme
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:25pm

    One of my “kids” is an MP, the other an EMT. I constantly worry about something happening to one of them. Last year an EMT was murdered while responding to a call in East St. Louis (the armpit city here). God bless the officers & their families and their co-workers.

    Report Post »  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:28pm

      I agree, I used to be certified as an EMT, & I know that in many places all it takes is a uniform &/or a flashing light to become a target.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
  • DTOM_Jericho
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 5:41pm

    “anyone foolish enough to shoot at a cop is a greater threat to a civillian.”

    There is no logic in this whatsoever. You are using the presumption that the individual sees civilians as lesser than unconstitutional brownshirts. No matter who was in the right in this instance, your assertion is completely void of any logic.

    Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:10pm

      Well, it’s my understanding that that is the belief put forth by police officials…although that may also be the justification to go after “cop-killers” more aggressively.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
    • DTOM_Jericho
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:17pm

      Ah. I see what you are saying. I very much liked your point about the King riots and who faired better.

      Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:19pm

      -You are using the presumption that the individual sees civilians as lesser than unconstitutional brownshirts-

      It is not my presumption, & I would say that civillians might be seen as a LESSER threat.

      By the way, I object to the reference to police officers as “brownshirts” not only is it derogatory…its flat out incorrect. Our police deserve at the very least tacit respect, until as individuals they prove themselves undeserving of it.

      Police officers, Sherriffs, Marshals, etc. risk thier lives on your & my behalf quite frequently…if you have a problem with the political appuratus behind the police…fine, but the front line officers are largely trying to make the country a batter place.

      Also, the “Brownshirts” were a political orginization…not a public one.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 7:31pm

      - Katrina gives “officers” a more current track record and proof that they are in fact the Amerikan equivalent of brownshirts.

      Let’s be honest here, from what I heard & saw (I’m not from New Orleans) Katrina wasn’t a (forgive the pun) High-water mark for anyone involved. Police, Governor, Mayor, President, FEMA, Congress, Citizenry etc. There were mistakes & atrocities galore…& if you are referring to the confiscation of firearms by the police, they were acting on orders, they were wrong, & if I was a police officer I‘d likt to believe I’d have refused that order…but with as stressful as that situation was I have to be honest & say that without being in that situation I really couldn’t know.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
  • dizzyinthedark
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 4:51pm

    I spent the day listening to the live broadcast on radio of the funeral/ceremony for the fallen police officers–very moving. The family members were very proud and will remember all who came out to line the streets in remembrance. May God bless the children of the fallen police officers.

    Report Post » dizzyinthedark  
  • RojBlake
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:47pm

    It is my understanding that “cop-killers” represent a higher level of threat because anyone foolish enough to shoot at a cop is a greater threat to a civillian.

    If that’s the case…this current rash of events means that we, the pub-lic, are now in greater danger doesn’t it?

    Doesn’t this also mean that with budget cuts, higher unemployment, the strain on public services (hey this IS Cloward & Piven isn’t it?), that we are even more responsible for our OWN safety & that of our communities?

    Does anyone remember the Rodney King riots?
    Does anyone remember who fared the best in those riots & how they did so?

    Report Post » RojBlake  
  • 123abc
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:41pm

    The crime & violence is getting worse. Will we ever be ready for more of it? Is it possible to totally prepare?

    Report Post »  
  • Whostolemypig
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:08pm

    If ANYONE attacks a police officer the rules of engagement should be,” take ‘em out”, by what every means possible. It doesn’t matter whether they are attacked by guns, knives or bare hands. Sure there are a few officers that carry their authority too far, but the overwhelming majority go out of their way to preserve your rights and protect your life They have a tough job to do and the average citizen would not show the restraint these guys do.

    When you resist arrest, you you are simply saying, “I don’t want to go to court and let the legal system handle this, I want to settle this right now”. You ask for it, so don’t complain when a cop beats your ass. He’s only complying with your request.

    Report Post »  
    • jctunink
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 5:31pm

      Being an ex-cop, I can tell you that the last thing a cop wants to to “engage” a suspect in hand to hand. 1. They may get access to your weapon 2. You may get your azz beat (not all perps are “wimps) 3. Even if you win you may get injured (my brother blew out his knee). Cops know it’s best to handle a suspect at range.

      Report Post »  
    • DTOM_Jericho
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 5:47pm

      You have obviously never had your rights violated by a pig and witnessed it happen to others. It only takes one time. You will never look at a pig the same.

      I’m not sure why you would pick a side before you have facts. Either side could be in the wrong here; admittedly it certainly seems like the suspect was not in the right to resist.

      Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:36pm

      DTOM_Jericho
      If they were serving a warrant they were entirely in the right. I have had experience with police both good & bad…but until a police officer proves that he/she is unworthy of respect…they deserve at least some deference.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
    • DTOM_Jericho
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:55pm

      They were not serving a warrant. As far as worthy or respect; you are allowed to view that however you wish. I do not want to take that away from you. You will not take my view away from me. They must demonstrate respect before they receive it in my eyes. I have witness cops lie and remove rights from people FOR LIFE without ever even being charged with a crime. I won’t say more.

      P.S. A brownshirt was in fact public. I have no idea what you meant by private. It was not a company, it was a paramilitary enforcement faction of the National Socialist party, that is; the government, Odd, sounds exactly like an enforcer of “democracy” when we are a Republic.

      Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 7:16pm

      -P.S. A brownshirt was in fact public. I have no idea what you meant by private. It was not a company, it was a paramilitary enforcement faction of the National Socialist party, that is; the government, Odd, sounds exactly like an enforcer of “democracy” when we are a Republic

      By private I mean they were NOT a governmental agency, like the police…they were part of a political party yes, but that isn’t the same thing.

      Look at it this way, the Brownshirts were more like “union thugs” than the police…now many police are members of unions, but they aren’t supposed to go to protests etc.

      As another example…if “the young Republicans” attacked & killed several SDS college students (God forbid), it would be members of a “political party” yes, but certainly not members of “the Government”, nor members of “The Public Sector”.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
    • pelosi galore
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 8:01pm

      Do you mean; Cops know it’s best to handle a suspect as if they were down range?

      Report Post » pelosi galore  
    • RojBlake
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 6:32am

      DTOM_Jericho
      Just a quick update, according to the news, the police did, indeed have an arrest warrant.

      They also said that within the last 24-hours 11 police officers had been killed in the line of duty throughout the country.

      Report Post » RojBlake  
  • oldjackpinesavage
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:59pm

    EXLIBERALGIRL:
    Get some self defense training (armed), Go to a shooting range and try (rent) several guns in he caliber of your choice and then make your choice of a firearm. Once you’ve purchased the firearm of your choice find a place that allows practice of armed self defense measures and practice practice practice. Hopefully you’ll never never have to use that knowledge and acquired skill.

    Report Post »  
  • Endstatism
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:49pm

    Anyone notice that every local shooting is now hitting the national news? Just wondering if the media is hyping and amplifying these incidents in order to keep one of their agenda items alive, that is more gun restrictions and bans on lawful citizens.

    Report Post » Endstatism  
    • CatB
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:44pm

      That and also I think that perhaps all the “agitating” from the left has emboldened those who would engage the police .. seems a lot of police shootings since Tuscon.

      Report Post »  
    • Jovan2
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 11:11pm

      Googled earlier, it appears that the number of law enforcement officers shot in 2011 is actually less than the fatalities of Jan, 2010. So, in that respect, you just might have a good point. I actually didn’t think about it until I read you post. But as stated, I can’t remember ever hearing this much reporting done all over the country.

      Report Post »  
  • fly892
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:33pm

    So sad…..Today the officers hold back trying to be proper……..
    Now they are dead……..
    Once again, better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6…………………

    Report Post »  
  • fly892
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:29pm

    I am so afraid the officers were holding back…..Tying to be proper……It got them killed”””
    Once again, better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6…………….

    Report Post »  
    • Truth_333
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:32pm

      HA ha ha…that is the most hilarious post on this site.

       
  • rfycom
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:23pm

    Come on let’s blame Sarah Pallin. It’s fun.

    Report Post »  
    • scuba13
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:12pm

      Of all the sperm that could have impregnated that egg, you were the one thats amazing.

      Report Post » scuba13  
  • exliberalgrl
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:23pm

    Here’s the update:
    Two St. Petersburg police officers, Tom Baitinger and Jeffrey Yaslowitz, were shot and killed this morning as they attempted to serve a warrant with a U.S. Marshal. The warrant was for suspect Hydra Lacy Jr., brother of boxer Jeff Lacy, was found dead at the scene.

    One less scumbag off the streets and in our tax payer funded prisons. Prayers again to the officers and families. God Bless everyone stay safe.

    Report Post » exliberalgrl  
  • cliftonb
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:22pm

    I live in Saint Petersburg. The area where this happened is a mess. You can’t go into a convenience store for a soda without being approached by drug dealers. They hang around in groups of 10 to 20 flagging down cars and openly selling drugs. The police cannot make contact with any of them without being labeled racist. The criminals are emboldened and the law abiding citizens and police can only wait for something bad to happen. The Uhurus of Saint Petersburg will blame the police for the whole thing and praise Hydra Lacy. Just reported, Lacy is dead.

    Report Post »  
    • BigDog2372
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 4:18pm

      Yep, I agree, the Uhurus are a HUGE problem here. I hope Harmon and Foster will become more pro-active against these people

      Report Post »  
  • Chicago Ray
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:18pm

    “”He was somebody we wanted to get off the streets.”"

    Naw really?

    Report Post » One Man Progressive Wrecking Crew  
  • DTOM_Jericho
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:18pm

    @Simpleton
    Gun toting criminals does not excuse away poorly trained and educated brownshirts. One is not dependent on the other.

    Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
  • exliberalgrl
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:17pm

    My prayers go out to the fallen officers and their families. I live in the north side of St Pete, this happened in the south side, not very far from me however It’s full of crime, drugs, and thugs. I know things are going to escalate here and might even trickle into my area. Robbery’s and shootings have been on the rise. Don’t have a gun yet, but seriously thinking of getting one. Any suggestions fellow patriots? Gonna prepare for the worst hope for the best. I will NOT be a victim of these low-life scumbags.

    Report Post » exliberalgrl  
    • Eblaze44
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:35pm

      If I were going to get a gun – I wouldn’t be waiting too long. I already have mine – and – it isn’t empty.

      Report Post » Eblaze44  
    • jctunink
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:46pm

      Aplly for your CCW, Get trained in it’s use care and feeding. Go to the range once a week to get proficient with it. If you travel to the Cocoa area go to the Florida Law Enforcment Museum where they offer classes in “Tactical Use” for your firearm. Use what is comfortable to you and be safe!

      Report Post »  
    • pelosi galore
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:52pm

      kimber pro carry, very concealable .45 cal only holds 7-8 rounds. Should not need more capacity than that if you practice, and become a good shot (really should not carry unless you are practiced, and a good shot.) Another cheaper option is a glock (pick one) or a beretta m-9. Ruger SR-9?

      Report Post » pelosi galore  
    • BigDog2372
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 4:17pm

      Same here Exliberalgrl, I live a bit north of Central Ave. and am very concerned about the crime syndicates on the South Side, including the Uhurus and the rest of the gang activity. I am good friends with a SWAT member and fear for his safety all the time.

      Report Post »  
    • Untameable-kate
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 4:34pm

      exliberalgrl
      I carry a 357 smith&wesson it is a pretty good gun but I recommend that you shoot 38′s out of it most of the time while you practice since those 357 rounds can bruse up your hands if you are target shooting for any amount of time.

      Report Post » Untameable-kate  
    • chasbronson
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 6:14pm

      Someone did mention this ,I agree,Find a shooting range that rents firearms[to be shot there of course].They will let you examine each one and its features.A good range instructor will help you determine what is best for you.Bigger and faster is not always better.It is well worth the rental time and money to try them BEFORE you buy them.I know people who bought 9mms,380′s and slide guns who wish now they would have bought a S&w 38 snub.You will be fortunate if you have friends who will let you try their weapons.Buy what you know YOU want by the facts ,and not what someone thinks you ought to have.Some will tell you to buy a Desert Eagle 50.[a side arm cannon for killing grizzly bears.

      Report Post »  
    • youguysready_letsroll
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 9:51am

      @KATE, you don’t need to be very accurate with that 357. Just the sound/shockwave from that thing going off would make the bad guy soil his panties.

      Report Post » youguysready_letsroll  
  • HellAndBack
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:13pm

    aawwwweee,.,,, JJUFON… you stole my line LOL

    Report Post » HellAndBack  
  • jjufon
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:56pm

    “it hasn’t been confirmed, nor even suggested but we believe the gunman were motivated by Fox news to commit these acts” more at our 6:00 news cast “back to you Joe”.

    Report Post »  
  • patriot1770
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:51pm

    Add your comments

    Report Post »  
    • missionarydad
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:38pm

      The shooter has now been identified as Hydra Lacy Jrand and is the brother of a professional fighter. The shooter has also been found dead I just heard an update.

      Report Post »  
  • patriot1770
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:50pm

    If he’s still there, set the house on fire, that’ll get him out. I see this string of police shootings as bad training on the part of the cops. It has alot to do with it if you are told time and time again not to hurt the poor crimenal or the dept might get sued. The officers jobs are usually routine bordom, alot of officers spend their intire career and never draw a gun. I think the lack of “real world” training, the “sensativity” crap and the lawyers looking for a fast buck are getting these guys killed.

    Report Post »  
    • YellowFin
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:05pm

      Shoot a rocket into the attic! Quit hiding behind cars.

      Report Post » YellowFin  
    • SimpleTruths
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:08pm

      yeah, that’s it. Blame the officers not the gun toting criminals.

      Report Post » SimpleTruths  
    • SimpleTruths
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:09pm

      Darn cops, always their fault isn’t it.

      Report Post » SimpleTruths  
    • The Patriot
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:11pm

      this is happening to our troops too. Being nice is getting them killed and the ones coming home are made to feel so bad they are committing suicide at a alarming rate

      Report Post »  
    • Firefight
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:24pm

      I assure you that is not the case for this neighborhood. You do not work this area unless you are highly trained. Think Detroit only condensed to a few square miles.

      Report Post » Firefight  
  • normbal
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:34pm

    Paging Frances Fox Piven, your revolution is starting. Care to comment?

    Report Post » normbal  
    • Onmiyogi
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:42pm

      She has. After supposedly receiving death threats; she commented that she feels that she was right in everything she and Fox wrote and she is still in favor of overthrowing the government.
      She‘s old’ but feisty!

      Report Post »  
    • Jerbear1098
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:43pm

      You nailed it !!!!!

      Report Post » Jerbear1098  
    • SimpleTruths
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:06pm

      Reagan had a revolution too didn’t he?

      Report Post » SimpleTruths  
  • Alvin691
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:23pm

    Praying for their families.

    Report Post »  
  • TruthTalker
    Posted on January 24, 2011 at 1:22pm

    Idiot was wanted for aggrevated assault now has set himself up for the death penalty.

    Report Post »  
    • Firefight
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:09pm

      This is literally a few blocks from my house. I know two officers that work that shift and in this area I pray it was not them.

      Report Post » Firefight  
    • takemout
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:23pm

      @firefight, why don’t you pray for the ones who were killed?

      Report Post »  
    • Firefight
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 2:47pm

      @takemout believe me I have and will continue to do so. maybe next time to satisfy you I should be more specific and list everyone who I pray for. I also prayed for the families and other officers as well. Is that okay with you or are the deceased only worthy of your prayers?

      Report Post » Firefight  
    • Cemoto78
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:04pm

      This year has started out to be a very violent one for those who protect and serve. Please take a moment out of your day and pray for those persons who put on the uniform to serve the citizens. God bless them all.

      Report Post » Cemoto78  
    • allenovercomer
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 3:51pm

      can anyone else see what is taking place here? This is the pressure from the bottom up, with times as they are we can be assured that we are going to hear of an up tick in violence.
      It is an unfortunate side effect of being human, when faced with nothing left to lose you will see this rise.
      I pray for all of us and feel that we are being truly tested, temper the steel I guess.
      Shooting someone is no answer but then again we are dealing with disturbed mind sets, all of this seems so pointless.

      Report Post » allenovercomer  
    • Cobra Blue
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 4:14pm

      No need for this nut to be delayed in facing the death penalty. He can face that penalty in real-time on-site of they take him out. Send in the sniper.

      Report Post »  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 7:54pm

      If only the victims had been carrying guns, they could have defended themselves… Oh wait…

      Three trained police officers gunned down and gun rights folks still think that the best protection against gun violence is to have more guns…

       
    • conserveamerican
      Posted on January 24, 2011 at 8:52pm

      I agree, my thoughts and prayers are with the fallen officers and their families

      Report Post »  
    • RabidPatriot
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 3:29am

      This happens every year. The Marshals service gets the funds for their new budget to round up the worst of the worst. It usually involves 3 Marshals and a dozen of local officers to serve arrest warrants for the known dangerous felons. People die and it seems like a new fallen officer record is a sure thing. The funding runs dry around April and these high risk arrest warrants become rare.

      Report Post » RabidPatriot  
    • WAR PIGS CRAWLING
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 5:08am

      @Publiuspencilman….It was an ambush, hence, the dirtbag was lying in wait. Very, very, very dangerous entry for a tactical team. Your equating the right to defend one’s self with a firearm against felonious assault, to cops being ambushed…really??? I have a hunch that you dislike law enforcement as much as you dislike firearms. People carry firearms because cops weigh too much to carry around.

      Report Post » WAR PIGS CRAWLING  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 9:53am

      War Pigs,
      I have the greatest respect for law enforcement, but that has nothing to do with what I am saying. My point is that gun advocates tend to present the self-defence argument as if attacks typically happen on a level playing field, so to speak. As if you get called out to the middle of the street for a quick-draw contest. However, I suspect that the vast number of of violent crimes committed by people who are armed involve some kind of ambush–after all, what criminal wants to give their victim a sporting chance? If trained police officers can be murdered by an armed assailant, what makes you think having a gun in her purse will protect a 100 pound woman from an attacker who will take her by surprise, then steal her gun?

      Report Post »  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 11:31am

      PubliusPencilman, I say give the officers sniper rifles. What’s your solution? Please make it a realistic solution.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 12:41pm

      TexasCommensense,
      Did you read the actual article? In what possible way would sniper rifles have prevented the deaths and wounding of the three officer’s ambushed? I think your standards for “realistic solutions” are a bit out of whack to begin with.

      Report Post »  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 2:19pm

      PubliusPencilman, I never said it would help that situation. I was speaking in generalities. You didn’t answer my question…

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 3:01pm

      Ah, I see. You were just saying something that has nothing to do with anything–my bad for suggesting that you were contributing to the conversation.

      What is my solution to violence against police officers? Well, there is no solution to that particular problem, and it wasn’t really what I was talking about. My point had to do with the idea of needing guns from self-defense. I thought that was pretty straightforward.

      Report Post »  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 3:20pm

      So you’re just talking about the problem without having a solution? That’s within your rights, of course, but it doesn’t get us anywhere. Sounds like you‘re suggesting the cops shouldn’t have guns for self-defense? I don’t think they would agree with that. Since they are the ones putting themselves in harm’s way, I say we let them decide. You can take a nightstick or TASER to a gun fight if you’d like. That doesn’t sound very smart to me. My solution is to make sure the police have more firepower than the bad guys. Unless they’re suicidal, they‘ll hopefully realize it’s a losing proposition before even beginning. Then there will be those who do bad things anyway. You can’t prevent every bad situation, but you can do your best to prepare for them. As we have discussed before, I reserve the right to take my chances with my own gun. Government can not fully protect anyone. That‘s why we’re granted the right, by our creator, to defend ourselves. That falls under right to life.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 4:13pm

      TexasCommonsense,
      Try to read more carefully please. Of course the police should be armed. No one is saying they shouldn’t. I’ll say it again: I was making a more general point about gun control and self defense, one that relates to our earlier discussion. You want to take your chances with your own gun? That’s just fine, except guns affect other people than their owners (I think we can agree that guns would be pointless if they didn’t). The gunman who shot the police officers was taking his own chances too.

      Report Post »  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on January 25, 2011 at 5:18pm

      PubliusPencilman, of course guns can affect people other than their owners. That’s why training, as required for a concealed-carry license, and regular practice can mitigate these risks. I still choose to be able to defend myself and am in favor of anyone able to obtain a firearm, through enforcement of existing laws, to also be able to defend themselves. Yes, criminals can get guns, too, but they shouldn’t be able to get them. The question is, how do you prevent this without infringing on someone’s legal right to own and carry a gun? Not all shootings are in crowded public places. Put yourself in this scenario. You’re in an isolated place and are about to be attacked by a criminal with a baseball bat. Would you rather have a firearm available to defend yourself, or not? It sounds simplistic, but to me it’s just common sense. Be prepared to defend yourself and your family, because law enforcement usually won’t be there when you need them. There’s also the issue of animal attacks. That’s a whole different discussion.

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