‘So...care to guess how many in the 50 states?
It would make an interesting comparison, but you don’t have one.’
My understanding was/is that there would much less than 28 different ‘violent’ offences on US state statute books.
‘My impressions? If this string of crimes had happened in the US, we would be asking “Why?” and “Where did we go wrong?” ‘
Really?. You have just had twenty little children blasted to death, and the biggest ire seems to be about keeping weapons....
‘I never see that in the discussion of British crimes. I find most Brits to be appallingly apathetic on the subject. It’s as if the matter was closed, you have your solutions, and nothing more can be done.’
We arent apathetic, people here were sick and angry at what happened to the two PC’s, just as we are when there are violent murders, of adults or children.
Perhaps the average Brit should get more angry, but you have to remember that, for all the hype, the UK actually is not a seriously violent nation. Most violent offences are against property. Violence against the person in the UK are about 70% fueled by alcohol and happen at the weekend.
And the UK historically has had a very low rate of crime, let alone murder. Hence the shock in America and elsewhere when the UK figures rocketed.
We simply dont have the amount of people being murdered by gun or other weapons, England and Wales (pop. 50 million) had 550 murders last year, Scotland (pop 5m) had 95, NI (pop 1.5m) had even less.
So the UK, with a population of over 60 million, had less than 700 murders.
Does that sound like a violent nation?.
‘Pardon me if I don’t look to you for solutions.’
Right back at you.
The example you cited (boat captain knowingly exposing crew to unnecessary peril) could be construed as an assault (among other things). The degrees of assault are defined according to state law.
I do wonder if you have ever spent any time in the US and have any concept of what a safety-conscious nation this is, down to the level of our construction codes, police and fire funding, etc., etc.
But, I digress.
Really?. You have just had twenty little children blasted to death, and the biggest ire seems to be about keeping weapons....
What "ire" are we supposed to have?
I don't know if you are familiar with Dr. Thomas Sowell, but if you're going to comment on a US conservative website you should be. In his column entitled "Invincible Ignorance" he discusses differences between the US and Britain on the gun question. Have a look at it: http://jewishworldreview.com/cols/sowell121812.php3
I'd be interested in your reaction.