Posted on 05/31/2006 9:34:33 AM PDT by neverdem
When a Somerset County man opened fire on two intruders at his apartment last month, killing one, he insisted he was protecting himself.
Whether Matthew Eperjesi was justified remains a question for the courts at a time of nationwide debate over extending legal protection for gun owners to shoot intruders in their homes and even people threatening them on the streets.
Gun rights advocates are applauding so-called "stand your ground" laws that have left anti-violence groups nervous. This year, nine states have enacted such laws, following Florida, which led the way with legislation passed in 2005.
Pennsylvania is among more than a dozen other states considering joining the trend.
"People are more fearful today for their well-being than they ever have been," said state Rep. Steven W. Cappelli, R-Williamsport, who spearheaded a bill under review by the House Judiciary Committee. "I believe we should follow the lead of other states and strengthen the rights of law-abiding citizens."
Cappelli's bill would allow Pennsylvanians to shoot before shooting becomes a last resort. Under current law, residents can protect themselves with firearms if placed in danger of death or serious injury, but the proposed law would relax what's commonly called a "duty to retreat."
In other words, that an intruder is breaking and entering would be proof enough that he means harm. Perhaps more controversial, though, shooters also would be exempt from facing criminal prosecution or civil lawsuits if they shoot and kill someone who is attacking them outside of the home.
"We believe it is fundamental to the American way of life and everybody's right to protection," said Ashley Varner, spokeswoman for the National Rifle Association. Varner said the NRA has made the "stand your ground" changes a top legislative priority.
Opponents are calling the laws "shoot first" legislation. Some even call...
(Excerpt) Read more at pittsburghlive.com ...
that's all libs know how to do. At home, Iraq, you name it. Appease, grovel, beg and apologize.
bump
Bears repeating. Retreat is a good tactical option sometimes and sometimes retreating until you are forced to use lethal force is suicidally stupid. In some situations retreat can actually escalate violence. Legislators who mandate it as a one-size-fits-all solution aren't living in the real world.
I remember the incident. IIRC, he was not charged at all, even on possessing a firearm in a bar.
In April, a large coalition of gun rights groups held a press conference to announce the introduction of this and several other pieces of pro gun legislation that will push back the intrusions on our irghts.
There are quite a few cosponsors in both houses. We may not get everything, but we expect to get most of them done.
Thanks to the NRA. Diggler, I hope You're a member.
ping
Me thinks that the "anti-violence groups" are really nervous that we might come after them...8-D
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