UNIT NINE| LAW AND ORDER GUN CONTROL, PRISONS, & CRIME

1999

WHY DOES IT NOT SEEM LIKE THIS? “Over the last several decades., the rate of violent crime has dropped significantly in the United States, from 713.6 violent crimes per 100,000 inhabitants in 1994 to 367.9 violent crimes per 100,000 in 2013.” GUNS & VIOLENCE

2012

DO MORE GUNS = MORE CRIME? In December 2015, the Washington Post published an article titled: “We’ve had massive decline in gun violence in the United States. Here’s why.”

Much of the decline in violence is still unexplained, but researchers have identified several reasons for the shift. Here are five. Obama, Oct. 1: We know that states with the most gun laws tend to have the fewest gun deaths. So the notion that gun laws don’t work, or just will make it harder for law-abiding citizens and criminals [to] still get their guns is not borne out by the evidence. More police officers on the beat Police using computers Less booze Less lead A better economy

WASHINGTON STATE GUN LAWS Washington gun control laws require a five-day waiting period before purchasing handguns, up to 60 days for non-residents. The state also prohibits non-citizens, those convicted of certain domestic violence violations, minors, and others from purchasing and possessing firearms. Open carry is lawful in Washington without any permit. Open carry of a loaded handgun in a vehicle is legal only with a concealed pistol license. Open carry of a loaded long gun in a vehicle is illegal, regardless of CPL possession. State Law does not allow more restrictive local laws. INITIATIVE 594: The measure required background checks to be run on every person purchasing a gun in the state of Washington, even those who do so via private sales. During the same election, voters rejected Initiative 591, which would have prevented the government from implementing background checks unless a federal standard is established. INITIATIVE 1491: authorized courts to issue “extreme risk protection orders,” which prevent a person from possessing or accessing firearms. The person would need to be considered a significant danger to himself or herself or others before an extreme risk protection order can be authorized. 

RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution reads: A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

NRA? GOOD OR EVIL?

If Guns DON’T INCREASE CRIME, DO EXTREME PUNISHMENTS DECREASE IT? Mandatory minimum sentencing laws set minimum sentences for certain crimes that judges cannot lower, even for extenuating circumstances. The most common of these laws deal with drug offenses and set mandatory minimum sentences for possession of a drug over a certain amount.

THREE STRIKEs…YER OUT! The three-strikes law significantly increases the prison sentences of persons convicted of a felony who have been previously convicted of two or more violent crimes or serious felonies, and limits the ability of these offenders to receive a punishment other than a life sentence.

PROS CONS Hinders the courts ability to judge. Provides a fix for flawed justice system so that repeat offenders remain in prison. Provides deterrent after 2nd conviction. Peace of mind for citizens Police deal with less offenders and focus on duties Hinders the courts ability to judge. Unjust in certain situations Plea bargains often get rid of first two convictions Violation of 8th Amendment Overcrowded prisons and cost

HOMEWORK FOR NOVEMBER 28 Read Domestic Policy: WORK & ECONOMIC SECURITY NO READING GUIDE. EXTRA CREDIT OPP.