Posted on 02/26/2005 10:08:37 PM PST by SmithL
Patrick McCullough has been complaining to Oakland police about drug dealers for the past 10 years -- and telling the young men who congregate in front of his house at 59th Street and Shattuck Avenue to beat it.
For his efforts, the 49-year-old has endured harassment, threats, vandalism and an assault in 2003.
Then, during an evening rainstorm on Feb. 18, about 15 young men surrounded McCullough and shouted "snitch" and other taunts as he walked from his front door to his driveway.
Someone hit him with a branch, and others threw punches. McCullough told police he had seen a 17-year-old reach for a gun, so he drew his own gun and shot his would-be assailant in the arm.
"I'm a man, not a mouse nor a vigilante. I'm not looking for medals, just a safe neighborhood and peaceful existence," said McCullough, who grew up in a housing project on the south side of Chicago. "I don't believe in vigilantism under any circumstances. What I did and will continue to do is take my safety in my own hands."
McCullough was arrested on suspicion of felony assault and is free on $15, 000 bail.
(Excerpt) Read more at sfgate.com ...
And armor,
and a bigger gun.
It's a tragedy he didn't kill all 15 of them.
He needs to invite the local chapter of the H A's over for a week or two.
The man doesn't need a medal, he needs a grassroots campaign.
Sounds like a good shoot. Too bad the cops decided to ignore the crackhouse for 10 years and then arrest the neighbor that had to put up with it.
Leave for higher ground.
He wasn't "defending his turf" He was defending his life.
No kidding.
I agree with you. However, where are the police? Aren't they supposed to serve and protect? It appears that there is a problem where this man lives. The police should clean up the area.
Isn't it sad that criminals have more rights than victims.
McCullough was arrested on suspicion of felony assault and is free on $15, 000 bail."
When the gang murders him and he doesn't show up in court, will the city forfiet his bail?
This is so hard to believe. If the government can't protect you, you have a right to protect yourself and your family. I am disgusted they arrested him! The police knew there was a problem, obviously it would eventually come to this because they couldn't protect him.
His courage is amazing!
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