 |
The Oct. 24 front-page article "Realco guns tied to 2,500 crimes in D.C. and Maryland" showed the need for deterrents for straw purchases. There are a number of ways to deter such purchases.
First, police should visit gun stores randomly on a daily basis. The article recounted how one store frequented by police sells about the same number of guns as Realco, but far fewer crime guns.
Second, background checks need to be widened. Most cases demonstrate that the felon was with the straw purchaser in the store. If background checks had to be run on all individuals present, dealers would more easily recognize straw purchases.
Third, an education program on the consequences of straw purchases is needed. Programs such as "Don't Lie for the Other Guy" are not sufficient. A program for schools, social services agencies and community centers should include talks from police officers, offenders and families of victims.
By preventing violent people from buying guns, we can help prevent gun violence.
Kristen Maccubbin, Arlington
The writer is a graduate student at George Mason University's Institute of Conflict Analysis and Resolution.
This material is presented as the original analysis of analysts at S-CAR and is distributed without profit and for educational purposes. Attribution to the copyright holder is provided whenever available as is a link to the original source. Reproduction of copyrighted material is subject to the requirements of the copyright owner. Visit the original source of this material to determine restrictions before reproducing it. To request the alteration or removal of this material please email [email protected].