More Senior Citizens Armed with Guns
January 25, 2004
KPLC TV - Lake Charles/Layfayette, LA
The number of crimes involving firearms is down, but still in 2002, more than 350-thousand people were the victims of a gun crime.
Some people have said "enough" and are fighting back and arming themselves. The majority of gun owners used to be mostly middle aged, but now, seniors -- those 65 and older -- are most likely to be armed.
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"More people are becoming victims," Earl Gothreaux said. "Particularly the elderly. And they're not going to stand for it."
So Gothreaux, the owner of Lake Charles Hunter Supply and Pistol Range, says seniors are taking safety into their own hands.
"I can speak for myself and for my wife and the reason we have purchased one is that my wife is on the highway quite a bit because of her profession at night," says one 65 year old man who wanted to go unnamed.
Click on the "Read More..." link below for more.
But is it safe for older Americans to own and carry guns? Gun control advocates have expressed concern over this trend, saying with the possibility of dementia as we age, guns are not safe in older hands. Gothreaux -- though -- has not seen any problems.
"Older people are more responsible and more dedicated," Gothreaux said. "Most of them, if they don't know how to use a pistol, then they will get education."
Gothreaux says another new group has also picked up interest. He says more women are taking his gun safety classes.
"The women are getting grit," he says, "and they're learning to protect themselves."
But, no matter who carries a gun, Gothreaux preaches safety first. He says if you pay attention to your surroundings, it's less likely you'll be the target of a criminal, and you can keep your gun in its holster.
Related Stories Across the Nation:
Tale of Two Cities: Rapist in Columbus? Call for help; Baton Rouge? Get a gun!
Poll: 9-11 attacks and D.C. snipers trigger soccer mom support for self-defense
ifeminists.com: Women need to defend themselves
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