How to Get Your Arm Shot Off in Washington State (Or Any Other State)

Published on August 12, 2022
Duration: 7:23

This video analyzes a self-defense incident where an 80-year-old store owner, Craig Cope, used lethal force against armed robbers. It details Washington State's legal framework for using force, specifically RCW 9A.16.020 and RCW 9A.16.050, outlining when lethal force is justified. The analysis emphasizes that imminent threats of death, serious bodily injury, or the commission of a felony are key legal justifications.

Quick Summary

In Washington State, lethal force is legally justified when facing an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury, or when a felony like robbery is being committed upon your person or at your place of business, as outlined in RCW 9A.16.050.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Criminals Winning & Legal Changes
  2. 01:01Case Study: Norco Mart Robbery in California
  3. 02:30Analysis of the Robbery Incident
  4. 02:36California's Assault Weapon Ban Critique
  5. 02:55Lawful Use of Force in Washington State
  6. 03:26Washington Law: RCW 9A.16.020 Explained
  7. 03:43Washington Law: Lethal Force Restrictions (RCW 9A.16.050)
  8. 04:09Applying Washington Law to the Incident
  9. 04:23Breakdown: Imminent Threat & Felony Justification
  10. 05:40Effectiveness of a Shotgun in Defense
  11. 06:04Bottom Line: Right to Use Lethal Force
  12. 06:45Further Questions & Contact Information
  13. 07:00Conclusion: Knowing Your Rights

Frequently Asked Questions

Under what conditions can lethal force be used in Washington State?

In Washington State, lethal force is permissible if you or someone in your presence faces an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury. It is also justified if a felony is being committed upon your person, in your home, or at your place of business, according to RCW 9A.16.050.

What specific Washington State laws govern the use of force?

Key statutes include RCW 9A.16.020, which allows for reasonable, necessary, and proportional force against imminent threats to person or property, and RCW 9A.16.050, which specifically addresses the conditions for using lethal force.

Does pointing a firearm at someone justify lethal force?

Yes, pointing an assault rifle at someone in a store is considered an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury, which legally justifies the use of lethal force under Washington State self-defense laws.

Is robbery a sufficient felony to justify lethal force in self-defense?

Yes, robbery and armed robbery are felonies. If such a felony is being committed upon your person or within your place of business, Washington law permits the use of lethal force to defend yourself.

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