On the other hand, had he been a reformed law-abiding citizen and done what the law required (remain disarmed), and IF he had a wife and child, and the intruder had been a sicko -- what then, Eagles6?
The pious punishment of disarming him, had he gone along, would have resulted in God knows what horror. Sure, it's a hypothetical, but a very realistic one. Firearms protect families, too.
Pretty stupid "punishment."
what "if" this guy is still a bad guy, selling dope, robbing, pimping...Does that change the situation?
Civilized society has put a price due to be paid by those that commit crimes, especially violent ones like robbery which this guy was convicted of.
Restriction of your rights is the payment.
In a just world this guy would have been in prison for a long time and not been in the situation that he was in. Chances are the dead guy also had a long rap sheet and shouldn't have been on the streets.
this guy made a calculation. He felt it was in his best interest to have a firearm. Now he has to deal with the consequences. Just like I have to do if I carry a firearm while traveling through a state that denies my 2nd Amend. rights or does not honor my CCW.
If he made a one time mistake long ago then apply to the governor for restoration of your rights. In the meantime get a black powder weapon.
Generally once a thug always a thug.