Gun Control In America What can we do to prevent gun violence?
Index 3
Introduction
4
Focus on Guns
7
Focus on People
10
Focus on Places
14
Summary
15
Sources
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Introduction Gun violence has become a hot topic in the United States over the past few years, with mass shootings increasing and very few, if any, new programs or laws to combat them. As this issue is one of the most divisive in the country and involves many players with varying stakes, it is easy to assign blame but difficult to agree on a solution. To effectively approach this issue, this book will explore three of the more prominent perspectives, their proposed options and the possible consequences.
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Focus on Guns HOW IT WOULD AFFECT THE NATION’S CRIME RATES The US Department of Justice stated, “Although most crime is not committed with guns, most gun crime is committed with handguns.”1 But with strict restrictions on guns there could be an outcry from people of all walks of life. Considering that most crime at the time reported, 1995, wasn’t listed largely with guns crime with guns could theoretically be lowered along with any potential gun crime considering it would be eradicated entirely. On the other hand, there would be a huge market for guns on the black market which could pull in more than just criminals. The US Department of Justice also went on to say, “Murder was the crime that most frequently involved firearms; 70% of the 24,526 murders in 1993 were committed with firearms.”1 This statistic supports the evidence that eradicating guns could lead to less means for murder. While the removal and banning of guns may turn some to other means it could distract many from committing murder. Especially since using a gun is an impersonal murder technique.
HOW IT WOULD AFFECT THE PUBLIC In 2006 researchers in Atlanta interviewed convicted youth, whom carried firearms actively, as to how they obtained them and why. “Almost all said that they could easily obtain a gun, would most likely obtain guns illegally on the street, and that gun carrying was commonplace: [They] had strong feelings about carrying guns — 29 percent of males and 75 percent of females said they did it to feel safer (for protection), and approximately 40 percent overall said it conferred status and made them feel more "energized" and "powerful."2 Not only are adults actively carrying guns, but it has spread to the youth as well. Considering many of the youth interviewed were raised in trouble homes these statistics are not as wide range as preferred. Along those lines there are many who use guns as means for food. Those living in farms, ranches, and far from large cities and towns. This could have a large standing on their way of life as well. As well as companies who employ to create guns. Along with that in 2016 there was surge in the gun
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industry which lead to thousands of new jobs.3 With gun removal there would be a loss of jobs and income. HOW IT WOULD AFFECT THE GOVERNMENT & LAW ENFORCEMENT Considering the U.S. is one of the most heavily armed nations in the world there is much concern for the officers as well. Officers can carry no matter the state and whether they are on or off duty. Michael J. Bulzomi, J.D, wrote an article titled “Off duty Officers and Firearms”. Within the article Bulzomi stated “law enforcement officers retain their identity, training, experience, and dedication to the safety and welfare of the community regardless of whether they are no duty.” Many might argue that they can successful complete this obligation with or without guns.
Richard Fairburn, a police academy firearms training unity director, once interviewed a potential young officer interested in becoming a police officer but refusing to shoot a gun. Her argument includes the likes that she’d be putting her own life at risk and that she was only interested in working at a desk. Without firearm training the process of becoming an officer is stopped. Fairburn said “If we allowed the young lady to place herself in mortal danger by not being armed while on duty, other officers might need to risk their lives to save hers. By not carrying her fair share of the load, other officers could die. That is not a choice she is entitled to make.”6 While there is great desire for there to be little danger in the world the likelihood is greatly limited. Removing guns could put officer’s life at risk according to Fairburn.
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WHAT WE COULD DO By removing guns already in possession of public and government officials, including police officers, there could be an option to re-attain them by going through new laws, obligations, and courses. This may bring contentment and change. But because there are many people who use guns as part of their livelihood it could cause an uproar, an economic depression, or a surge in the black market. By eradicating all guns and banning them within the states could decrease crime rates. Although it would be a hefty task and might involve violence to succeed it could theoretically occur. But there would be an uprising that could market guns on the black market. It also would hinder the police officer’s ability to protect and complete their job duties. By banning any future guns could cause less crime and violence. But it could also cause outcries, illegal gun importations, a surge in the black market, rising taxes, and violence to obtain guns.
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FOCUS ON PEOPLE The typical aftermath of gun violence situations, especially mass shootings where multiple lives are lost, involves a series of ‘who is/was at fault’ conversations. The Second Amendment gives Americans the right to keep and bear arms, so it is only natural that some place blame on the people involved – the shooter or suspect.7 This option holds that while gun violence is a multifaceted issue with many players, it is primarily the fault of a person or people. SAFETY MEASURES IN PLACE According to the Gun Violence Archive, the United States has seen a total of 36 gun violence incidents since the beginning of the year, 22 of which had one or more fatalities.8 U.S. gun regulations place restriction of access to guns on those found guilty of illegal substance possession or use; under 18 years old – or 21 for certain firearms; to name a few. State and local governments can implement their own restrictions and regulation, so far as they don’t lower the federal minimum.9 One of the more notable countries to have strict gun safety laws in place is Japan. Though Japan introduced gun control soon after guns were introduced to the country, those laws were made more stringent following World War II.
Today, Japanese citizens cannot possess a gun if they are under 18 years old; if they have declared bankruptcy; if they are addicted to alcohol, cannabis or drugs; if they are “feeble-minded”; or if they have a restraining order placed against them, to name a few. The process to apply for gun ownership is also very restrictive, and gun owners must receive certifications that must be renewed every three years.10 MENTAL HEALTH AND GUN VIOLENCE One possible consideration with gun violence is to look at the shooters’ and suspects’ mental health. This may offer more insight on how to prevent further incidents. While many states require mental health screenings for gun buyers, many do not go deep enough or are only required for certain firearm purchases; therefore, weapons can still be legally purchased by a person experiencing mental health issues or distress.
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Drs. Jonathan M. Metzl, and Kenneth T. MacLeish wrote, “It is undeniable that persons who have shown violent tendencies should not have access to weapons that could be used to harm themselves or others. However, notions that mental illness caused any particular shooting, or that advance psychiatric attention might prevent these crimes, are more complicated than they often seem.�11
Nosheen Hydari, a crisis therapist for the Community Counseling Centers of Chicago, said early crisis intervention, access to mental health services and public education programs can impact at-risk individuals and prevent gun violence.12
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WHAT WE COULD DO This option holds people responsible for gun violence in the US, and the public should address the government, police, and communities should intervene to protect people from those negative consequences. Here are some things this option suggests that we do, including some drawbacks: State governments could adopt laws to increase the complexity of gun purchasing. This would include age restrictions on buyers and more in-depth background checks for all firearm purchasing, with regard especially to those with mental health issues or characteristics that have been seen in past suspects of gun violence. But added restrictions may not necessarily increase public responsibility regarding guns. Typically, those who are getting guns legally are using them for legal activities (such as hunting), so further restrictions on lawful gun owners could encourage more illegal methods to be used. Punishments for illegally buying, owning or handling guns could be made more severe in order to discourage illegal activity pertaining to firearms. Further, laws on gun safety and storage could be more heavily enforced to ensure due diligence of gun safety and prevention of violence. But harder punishment for crime does not always discourage illegal activity. This would also increase government intrusion in the private lives of the public. Dedicate a section of the government to monitoring gun owners/buyers, keeping track of individuals’ certifications and activity, similar to how Japan approaches gun control. But this greatly increases government involvement in Americans’ private lives and would require a significant amount of funding.
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FOCUS ON PLACES In light of the recent school shootings over the past year, it has become evident how important it is to protect citizens against criminals who utilize firearms to create fear and destruction throughout the nation. With these horrific acts taking place, something has to be done in order to minimize the risk of further attacks that cause so much sorrow and grief.
With the gradual increase of active shooters in the U.S., it is apparent how vital it is that there needs to be action taken against those who seek to harm and terrorize the nation. Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) is a database through the FBI that shares information about crimes taking place throughout the nation. In an article entitled Crime in Schools and Colleges, it states the following:
WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT GUN VIOLENCE The FBI published an article that included the following graph13:
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“Schools and colleges are valued institutions that help build upon the nation’s foundations and serve as an arena where the growth and stability of future generations begin. Crime in schools and colleges is therefore one of the most troublesome social problems in the Nation today. Not only does it affect those involved in the criminal incident, but it also hinders societal growth and stability. In that light, it is vital to understand the characteristics surrounding crime in schools, colleges, and universities and the offenders who reportedly commit these offenses so that law enforcement, policy makers, school administrators, and the public can properly combat and reduce the amount of crime occurring at these institutions.”14
Students should not be afraid of attending schools, which emphasizes the importance of establishing some sort of security in order to maintain safety. This need doesn’t just apply to schools, but also to all of our public areas.
CREATING AWARENESS There are many resources that can be utilized in order to inform individuals of all ages about what to do in scenarios where there is an active shooter. One resource is the I love you guys foundation. Its purpose is to provide training to schools all over the nation for what to do in an active shooting situation.15 Homeland Security also offers training to all citizens against an active shooter. They state the following in reference to private citizens:
“In many cases, there is no pattern or method to the selection of victims by an active shooter, and these situations are, by their very nature, unpredictable and evolve quickly. Resources such as posters and pocket guides raise awareness of the indicators of an active shooter incident and how to respond.”16 Even though there are those whose sole purpose is to create fear and terror by going on a shooting rampage, that doesn’t mean the public shouldn’t be aware of how to respond in that kind of situation.
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Even though there are those whose sole purpose is to create fear and terror by going on a shooting rampage, that doesn’t mean the public shouldn’t be aware of how to respond in that kind of situation. A STRONGER SECURITY PRESENCE There are many ways the nation can fortify against gun violence. One way could be to establish a stronger security presence in our public areas. This could include requiring all gun owners to take firearm instruction courses in case there is an incident they are in where there is an active shooter. Regarding the country’s school system, there can also be the possibility of adding more officers to secure the premises. This could place an added measure of protection for students and teachers. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), are 98,271 public schools in the nation.17 The NCES also performed a survey to schools in which only 30% had said they had at least one resource officer in their schools.18
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WHAT WE COULD DO Provide training to willing teachers in firearms and/or combat to defend against active shooters. This would be effective in extending the ability to stop a shooter to the teachers, rather than relying solely on law enforcement to stop the shooter. But this takes time and resources, which can be difficult for smaller schools or where finances are tight for various districts. It also could be dangerous when officers arrive on the scene and may not know who to engage with. Require gun owners to take and pass defensive firearms courses. This could create a more fortified environment all around the country, providing more secure public locations. But this would essentially be forcing citizens to take courses that may not be as prevalent in areas where shootings may not be as likely. Provide more available instruction to the public on what to do in active shooter situations. As shootings continue to take place, it may be necessary to create more awareness for the public on actions that can be taken in these situations. But this will take more time and resources than may be available. The level of willingness to participate may be low as well.
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Summary Gun violence in the United States is an issue that will likely be at the forefront of American minds and hearts if incidents continue at their current rate. While gun control is one of the most divisive and talked-about issues in the country and involves many players with varying stakes, opinions and solutions, something must be done to prevent gun violence and gun-related deaths.
Focus on Guns
Focus on People
Focus on Places
What can be done
Possible drawbacks to consider
Remove all guns, with the option to regain them by completing gun safety courses
Economic depression; pushback by citizens who don't want to give in their guns
Ban all guns (no exceptions)
Surge black-market purchasing of firearms; hinder police from protecting public
Ban new purchases of guns (all who have guns now can keep them, but no one can buy more guns)
Increased illegal gun importations and black-market purchases; potential increase in violence as guns become a limited commodity
Adopt laws to increase complexity of gun purchasing
Could encourage more illegal methods to be used to acquire firearms
Increase severity of punishments for illegal buying, owning or handling of guns; more heavily enforce gun safegy and storage Create a government entity dedicated only to monitoring gun owners and potential illegal firearm activity Training teachers in firearms/combat Requirement for gun owners to take defensive firearms training Available instruction to public for active shooter situations
Increased government intrusion in the private lives of the public; more punishment does not always mean less crime Greatly increases government involvement in Americans’ private lives; would require a significant amount of funding.
Time and resources for schools that may not have the means; law enforcement becomes obsolete Increased government intrusion into the private lives of the public Requires extensive time and resources; lack of participation would render the instruction less effective
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Sources 1. Zawitz, Marianne W. “Guns Used in Crime.” Bureau of Justice Statistics Selected Finding, U.S. Department of Justice, July 1995, www.bjs.gov/content/pub/pdf/GUIC.PDF. 2. “Reducing Gun Violence.” www.ncjrs.gov, U.S. Department of Justice, June 2006, www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/209800.pdf. 3. “Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.” Careers | Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, 2018, www.atf.gov/careers. 4. Smith, Aaron. “Gun industry surge adds tens of thousands of jobs.” Gun Industry Surge Adds Ten of Thousands of Jobs, Cable News Network, 18 Apr. 2016, money.cnn.com/2016/04/18/news/economy/guns-jobs/index.html. 5. “Legal Digest: Off-Duty Officers and Firearms.” FBI, FBI, 1 Jan. 2011, leb.fbi.gov/articles/legal-digest/legal-digest-off-duty-officers-and-firearms. 6. “Why cops carry guns.” PoliceOne, 21 July 2008, www.policeone.com/policeproducts/firearms/articles/1716565-Why-cops-carry-guns/. 7. Congress, Amendment II: right to bear arms, (1789) 8. Gun Violence Archive, Mass shootings, (2018) 9. DW, 8 facts about gun control in the US, (2018) 10. Library of Congress, Firearms-control legislation and policy: Japan, (2015) 11. Jonathan M. Metzl, MD, PhD and Kenneth T. MacLeish, PhD, Mental illness, mass shootings, and the politics of American firearms, (2015) 12. Nosheen Hydari, Gun violence prevention: crisis intervention through mental health support services, (2014) 13. (n.d.). Retrieved March 03, 2018, from https://search.usa.gov/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&affiliate=usagov&query=active%2Bsho oter%2Bstatistics 14. Crime in Schools and Colleges. (2010, March 17). Retrieved March 03, 2018, from https://ucr.fbi.gov/nibrs/crime-in-schools-and-colleges 15. About Us. (n.d.). Retrieved March 03, 2018, from http://iloveuguys.org/about_us.html 16. Private Citizen. (2018, February 21). Retrieved March 03, 2018, from https://www.dhs.gov/private-citizen 17. The NCES Fast Facts Tool provides quick answers to many education questions (National Center for Education Statistics). (n.d.). Retrieved March 03, 2018, from https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=84 18. Frequently Asked Questions. (n.d.). Retrieved March 03, 2018, from https://nasro.org/frequently-asked-questions/
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