Let's Truly Prevent Violent Crime

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By Michael A. Kotch

Determining effective solutions to the violence, which threatens our communities requires real honest efforts to keep us safe. Cosmetic answers to complex problems might present the allusion of safety, yet more suitable solutions to ending violence are required. Guns have been epitomized as the culprit to disorder in society. This shallow explanation for the causes of social disorder has blinded many people from the truth. Stricter gun-control laws will ultimately fail in reducing crime. As a committed educator I am fully aware that the proper guidance of our children, and the acceptance of personal responsibility for our individual actions provides the soundest solution to addressing all forms of violence pervading our communities.

Ronald Reagan once said, “We must reject the idea that every time a law''s broken, society is guilty rather than the lawbreaker. It is time to restore the American precept that each individual is accountable for his actions.” This statement embraces the very essence of effective laws geared toward preventing gun-related violence. People who use firearms for unlawful and destructive purposes should be held accountable for their heinous actions.

Stricter measures of gun-control will not reduce violence, but holding individuals who are directly responsible for reprehensible crimes will deter the likelihood of these most unfortunate events from occurring in the future. Let''s start blaming criminals responsible for violent actions, and allow the honest, law-honoring gun owner to live his or her life in peace.