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Back to To the Point

To the Point

Is it 'Stand Your Ground' or 'Make My Day?'

It used to be that people threatened with violence had a duty to flee, unless they were defending their own homes. The recent Trayvon Martin killing has focused attention on so-called "stand-your-ground" laws, which began in Florida and have spread to 24 other states.

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By Warren Olney • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

It used to be that people threatened with violence had a duty to flee, unless they were defending their own homes. The recent Trayvon Martin killing has focused attention on so-called "stand-your-ground" laws, which began in Florida and have spread to 24 other states. Under such laws, anyone who claims to "perceive" a threat has the right to use equal force for protection. New York's Mayor Michael Bloomberg says they're creating a nation of vigilantes. Many cops and prosecutors agree. The National Rifle Association supports "stand-your-ground" laws and gun control advocates are losing ground. Despite real dangers in some neighborhoods, is the right to carry a gun being given more value than the right to life?

NOTE: The NRA declined our invitation to participate in this discussion.

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    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

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    Katie Cooper

    Producer, 'One year Later'

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    Sonya Geis

    Senior Managing Editor

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    Anna Scott

    Former KCRW Housing and Homelessness Reporter

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    Elizabeth Megale

    Barry University

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    David LaBahn

    Association of Prosecuting Attorneys

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    Gerald Vernon

    Chicago Firearms Safety Association

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