[pete29]

Hello All,
Recently there has been a number of break-ins/robberies in my part of town. I live in a rural (which could be considered backwoods to most) area and this kind of activity is very unusual around these parts. It is to the degree that the Sheriff's deputies have warned the general public of the area to be careful and take precautions. Naturally, I'm concerned for my family and friends as they also are at risk to these thieves. I own a Stoeger Model 2000 12 gauge semi auto and a Glock 30 (both sleep on the floor next to my bed) Now, 00 buckshot and +P hollowpoints, while hidden, are within my arms reach from laying in bed. I would like to avoid any confrontations with these people but if my family is targeted I would feel no remorse after pulling the trigger. I'm sure I'm not the only one here who has been in this type of situation and I'm looking for some advice.

[Mas Ayoob]

Pete, there's lots to consider here, but just a few suggestions...

It would be a good idea to WEAR the Glock 30 24/7 and not just keep it at bedside, and that would go for other members of the household you deem competent for armed defense as well. Cell phones on the person for everyone in the family when out and about on the property is a good idea, too.

Should the day come when you need your defense guns, it will be strong for you in court that the Sheriff's Department has advised those in your community to take precautions...but it will be stronger if members of the Sheriff's Department can testify that they personally helped you to arm yourselves. To this end, ask the Department if they can send a deputy to do a security assessment on your home. You'll get good advice on locks, alarms, and related topics, and the Department may by now have developed "persons of interest" and have descriptions of suspects that they can share with you. Useful intelligence, and it leaves you in a stronger position to defend your actions should something happen. Perhaps the Sheriff's Department can even arrange some defensive shooting lessons and use of force lessons for you and your neighbors, further establishing the lawfulness of possible future actions in defense of yourself and your family. I'm sure they'd be happy to help coordinate a rural version of Neighborhood Watch for you, too.

Your letter didn't mention details on the robberies, but if they're involving multiple home invaders, you might want to consider adding semiautomatic rifles to your home defense armory.

best of luck,
Mas

[pete29]

Mas,
Your reply provided lots of great points and insight. I'll definitely take them into consideration, Thanks!