Tom Gresham's Gun Talk: 3.5.17 - Part A

Published on March 6, 2017
Duration: 41:55

This episode of Gun Talk discusses the legal and ethical implications of private citizens intervening in crimes, particularly shoplifting, with firearms. Host Tom Gresham and callers emphasize that the primary reason for carrying a firearm is self-defense, not acting as a hobbyist law enforcement officer. The discussion highlights the significant legal risks and potential felony charges associated with using deadly force against fleeing shoplifters, even in constitutional carry states. Expert advice stresses the importance of extensive training and understanding the severe consequences of misjudging a situation.

Quick Summary

The primary reason for carrying a firearm is self-defense, not acting as a hobbyist law enforcement officer. Intervening in crimes like shoplifting with a firearm carries severe legal risks, including felony charges and financial ruin, as civilians lack the qualified immunity afforded to law enforcement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Crimson Trace Laser Sights Ad
  2. 00:28Introduction: Assault on Rifles in Maryland
  3. 01:43Concern Over Citizen Intervention in Crimes
  4. 02:48The Reason We Carry Guns: Self-Defense
  5. 03:05Law Enforcement as a Hobby: A Bad Idea
  6. 03:27Responsibility for Every Bullet
  7. 03:54When All Bets Are Off: Self-Defense
  8. 04:45Don't Pretend to Be a Cop
  9. 05:10Case Study: DEA vs. Citizen Intervention
  10. 06:17No Obligation to Stop a Thief
  11. 07:05Legal Consequences of Intervention
  12. 07:44The 'It's Our Duty' Argument
  13. 08:34Sergeant Schultz: 'I Know Nothing'
  14. 08:41Suggestion: Throw Vegetables, Not Bullets
  15. 09:10Call In: Do We Have a Duty?
  16. 09:28Crossbreed Holsters Ad
  17. 09:59Springfield Armory SOCOM 16CQB Ad
  18. 10:30GunDilio App Ad
  19. 11:27Crimson Trace Laser Sights Ad
  20. 12:08Responsibility of Carrying a Gun
  21. 12:33The Importance of Training and Study
  22. 13:13More Study Leads to Less Gun Use
  23. 13:33Michigan Case: Shooting at Tires
  24. 14:14Why Shooting Tires is a Bad Idea
  25. 15:20Florida Walmart Shoplifter Incident
  26. 15:37Get Training, Read Up
  27. 15:58Caller: Rob from Elko, Nevada
  28. 16:04Range Report: CZ P9 Suppressor Ready
  29. 17:10Holster Challenge: Blackhawk Omnivore
  30. 18:38Range Report: Smith & Wesson 38 Special
  31. 19:22Political Updates: Ryan Zinke & Ammo Bans
  32. 20:20Obama's Edicts and Gun Control Efforts
  33. 21:36Social Security Administration & Gun Rights
  34. 22:04Caller: Justin from Alaska
  35. 22:09Rifle Cartridge Recommendation: Deer & Coyotes
  36. 22:535.56 for Deer? Discussion
  37. 23:18Potential Calibers: .243, 6.5 Creedmoor
  38. 23:51Semi-Auto Preference for Coyotes
  39. 24:22AR-10 Platforms: .243, .260, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308
  40. 24:42Coyote Problem: Eating a Horse
  41. 25:24Caliber Choice: Personal Preference
  42. 26:02Range: 40 to 400 Yards
  43. 26:49Minimizing Recoil for Multiple Shots
  44. 27:23Performance of .243 on Deer
  45. 27:52Bullet Construction vs. Weight
  46. 28:34Closing Call with Justin
  47. 28:47Ruger 10/22 Ad
  48. 29:16Brownells Ad
  49. 29:46Concealed Carry Training DVDs
  50. 30:21Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory Ad
  51. 31:00Email: Don't Forget the Gindle
  52. 31:10Caller: Rich from Tennessee
  53. 31:17Grip Pod vs. D-Pod/Leapers D-Grips
  54. 31:31Forearm Grip or Bipod?
  55. 32:145.56 as a Deer Cartridge
  56. 32:28Bipod Recommendations: Harris, Atlas
  57. 33:17Vertical Grips vs. Bipods
  58. 33:51AR Platform Experience
  59. 34:21Caller: Chuck (Former Deputy Sheriff)
  60. 34:30Legal Obligation vs. Moral Obligation
  61. 35:11Jury Selection and Bias
  62. 35:56Shoplifter Scenario: What Would You Do?
  63. 36:31Escalating Scenario: Carjacking
  64. 37:18Chicago Uber Driver Incident (2015)
  65. 37:49Self-Defense and Defense of Others
  66. 38:06Situational Awareness and Training
  67. 38:13Train Your Mind, Train Your Body
  68. 38:41Mental Preparation: What-If Scenarios
  69. 39:27Potential Negative Outcomes of Gun Use
  70. 40:00Decision Making Under Duress
  71. 40:43Pre-Decided Actions for Scenarios
  72. 40:51Taking Up Law Enforcement as a Hobby
  73. 41:12Lack of Qualified Immunity for Civilians
  74. 41:24Risking Everything: Financial Ruin
  75. 41:43Final Thoughts and Call to Action
  76. 41:52Music Break

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary reason for carrying a firearm?

The primary reason for carrying a firearm is self-defense. It is not intended to be used for hobbyist law enforcement activities or to apprehend individuals for minor offenses like shoplifting, which carries significant legal risks.

What are the legal risks of intervening in a shoplifting incident with a firearm?

Intervening in a shoplifting incident with a firearm can lead to felony charges, severe legal liability, and financial ruin. Even if you believe you are acting correctly, a jury may not share your opinion, especially in urban areas.

Is it advisable to shoot at the tires of a fleeing shoplifter's vehicle?

No, shooting at the tires of a fleeing vehicle is generally not advisable. It is often ineffective, poses a risk of ricochet, and can lead to charges such as reckless discharge of a firearm. The bullet's trajectory and potential for collateral damage are serious concerns.

How can individuals prepare for potential use-of-force situations?

Preparation involves extensive training, both physical and mental. This includes practicing drawing, shooting, reloading, and engaging in mental 'what-if' scenarios to pre-decide actions and understand potential negative outcomes, thereby reducing the likelihood of unnecessary intervention.

What is the difference between law enforcement and civilian use of force?

Law enforcement officers have qualified immunity, offering legal protection for their actions within their duty. Civilians do not have this immunity and face greater personal liability for any use of force, potentially risking everything they own.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Gun Talk Media

View all →