Guns are not the issue

Dear editor:

Mr. Banks, your recent letter regarding gun control is very scary. Chicago is one of the strictest in the nation in terms of gun control and one of the highest in gun-related illegal events. Everyone is quick to blame the NRA for mass shootings, however, it is not the NRA or any of its members that are committing the crime -- it is criminals that are committing the crimes. Just one armed concealed carry person could have saved the day in Oregon and at other mass shootings. Gun-free zones have done nothing more than advertise the location of potential victims.

For those who leave firearms in a vehicle and don't secure them properly, there should be an appropriate penalty for that. It is the responsibility of the gun owner to maintain control and security of their firearms. When purchasing handguns, a proper lock is included with each purchase.

What exactly are you advocating for? You scream for stricter gun control and go on to say you don't want to take away our guns. Which is it? Criminals don't obey laws or rules, only law-abiding citizens do. Mental health problems continue to grow and are not properly addressed. Along with that is a whole generation of excuse making and no responsibility for one's actions.

Do we ban cars because of drunken drivers? No. We deal with the drunken drivers. We don't mandate ignition locks for all vehicles because of the drunks, no. Why should gun safes and gun locks be mandated. In the time it takes to remove a gun from a safe or remove a lock, it is too late to save your life.

We need to deal with the criminals and those who are irresponsible in leaving firearms unsecured in vehicles. it is liberals like you who scare me to death. I need protection from people like you and the criminals. I pray that you or your loved ones are not victims of a shooting and your gun was locked in a safe and not accessible.

Sharon Parrett

Hot Springs

Editorial on 10/11/2015

Upcoming Events