Controversy Over Gun Control Laws
As a recent juror in Long Beach for a murder trial, I had an opportunity to judge and think about the availability and use of guns in our society. The facts in this case are that a man, while under the influence of alcohol and PCP to a limited extent, decided to kill another man.
He borrowed a handgun from a neighbor at 4:40 a.m. and proceeded to shoot the victim six times. The man will now go to prison, the victim has been buried, and at least two families will suffer the consequences of this action for many years.
I do not understand why anyone should have guns in a home. If guns could be eliminated, by whatever means necessary, society as a whole would be safer. Fewer individuals would die or suffer wounds, fewer crimes would include gross violence.
If people still wanted to shoot for sport, there could be centers for shooting: galleries or ranges with non-living targets.
I think it is time that sensible people begin to eliminate some of the tools of destruction that we find all around us.
PATRICK SWEENEY
San Pedro
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
