It has literally only been a couple of days since a Detroit grandmother was sentenced to five years of probation for her conviction in the accidental death of her grandchild. So, it is really startling to learn that today's headlines from the local media have informed us that a two year-old girl is battling for her life in an area hospital after being shot in the head by her four year-old brother.
In the former incident, the four year-old child was being watched by her grandmother on December 10th of last year, when she came across a loaded firearm in a nightstand and killed herself.
In the aftermath of that shooting, I personally felt that there was a lot of grandstanding being done publicly in the media by the local Police Chief. After all, what possible sentence that could be meted out by the judicial system would be more painful than the thought of knowing that your carelessness led to your grandbaby's death?
Even a hard-core Second Amendment advocate can have a second opinion about a few things. In the aftermath of today's shooting, it is apparent that there are some gun owners who are not being responsible.
You would think that after all of the discussions surrounding the first case, folks would have gotten the message: being careless with a firearm in the home can lead to a child being seriously harmed or killed. At least two different levels government - the city and the county - implored area residents to pick up free gun locks and to be responsible with their guns.
It appears that after all of that activity, for at least the household of today's shooting incident, was for naught. In today's incident a two year-old is celebrating her second birthday in critical condition while her stunned four-old brother has been saddled with the gravity of having seriously injuring, if not killing, his younger sister.
Receiving the news of today's incident has me torn. Once side of me is actually empathetic to the parents of the children. One can only imagine what it would feel like to have one small child in critical condition while the other one is greatly saddened at what he has done in a game of fun that has turned tragically serious.
The other side of me is furious at the parents. How could they be so irresponsible with their firearms? On the most fundamental level of gun safety, whether you have taken a formal class in it or not, you know that you have an absolute obligation to keep those firearms out of the reach of small children. There is no excuse, especially, after the lenient verdict that was given in the first case.
This incident should be thoroughly investigated by the authorities to determine who owns the gun. Once that has been determined, that person should suffer the fullest possible penalty under the law. Only then, after someone has had "the book thrown at them," will the few irresponsible gun owners take their gun ownership obligations more seriously or make the decision to remove their guns from their home until they can be responsible.
End of rant.
This blog chronicles the adventures of Rick Ector, an urban Firearms Instructor in the most violent city in the world - Detroit, Michigan. Info on Personal Protection, Firearm Safety, Concealed Pistol License CPL, Concealed Carry Weapons CCW, Detroit CCW Class, and Self-Defense. As seen on AP, UPI, NRAnews' "Cam and Co. Show," Gun Digest Magazine, Tactical-Life, The Urban Shooter Podcast, Firearms Truth, The Politics Daily, Fox News Detroit's - "Channel 2 News" and "Let It Rip."
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Friday, April 30, 2010
IHOP's Policy On Guns In It's Franchised Locations - Including The One In Detroit
As per my previous post, I am now informing you of the response that I got from IHOP regarding the lawful carry of firearms in its franchised locations.
Dear Mr. Ector,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the carrying of weapons at IHOP restaurants.
While we do not have a formal policy on this issue, we direct our franchise owners to comply with all local, state and federal laws. Guests that are abiding by the law are welcome at IHOP Restaurants. Because additional attention has been focused on this particular issue recently, we have reminded our franchise system of these requirements per our franchise agreement with them.
Again, thank you for your interest and the opportunity to clarify our stance on this issue.
Sincerely,
Marcia
Guest Service Representative
IHOP Restaurant Support Center
I am reading this response as coporate headquarters is now reminding the franchised locations that the lawful carrying of firearms is to be allowed.
So, who wants to join me for pancakes and guns on Jefferson Avenue tomorrow morning? If I am refused service, I will notify headquarters.
Dear Mr. Ector,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the carrying of weapons at IHOP restaurants.
While we do not have a formal policy on this issue, we direct our franchise owners to comply with all local, state and federal laws. Guests that are abiding by the law are welcome at IHOP Restaurants. Because additional attention has been focused on this particular issue recently, we have reminded our franchise system of these requirements per our franchise agreement with them.
Again, thank you for your interest and the opportunity to clarify our stance on this issue.
Sincerely,
Marcia
Guest Service Representative
IHOP Restaurant Support Center
I am reading this response as coporate headquarters is now reminding the franchised locations that the lawful carrying of firearms is to be allowed.
So, who wants to join me for pancakes and guns on Jefferson Avenue tomorrow morning? If I am refused service, I will notify headquarters.
Is The IHOP In Detroit On Jefferson Avenue In Violation Of Corporate Policy?
I recently did a story on my blog in which I had stated that the IHOP on Jefferson Avenue in Detroit recently implemented a Pistol-FREE Zone Policy. A person left a comment on my blog which stated that this new rule was in violation of their company policy.
So, I did a little research on the Internet and found an item from 2007 that suggested that IHOP coporate policy may differ from the rule that the Jefferson location has adopted.
So, I used the form at IHOP's Corporate Web Site to pose the following email:
Hello. I am a frequent customer of the IHOP chain in the Detroit area - the Royal Oak, MI and the downtown Detroit locations.
I am a credentialled firearms trainer who has a state of Michigan issued Concealed Pistol License. I carry a firearm wherever I can lawfully carry. In Michigan, it is lawful to either openly carry a pistol in a holster, if the person can legally possess a firearm, or carry a concealed firearm, if licensed, such as myself.
It was recently reported in a local story here in Detroit, that the IHOP location in Detroit does not allow firearms. If this info is true, I will stop patronizing your chain and advise my family, friends, and readers of my blog to also not eat at this establishment.
Will you please state your corporate policy on the lawful carry of firearms?
The story appreared at the following url:
http://detnews.com/article/20100412/OPINION03/4120333/No-guns--just-pancakes-at-Jefferson-Avenue-IHOP
Regards,
Rick Ector
http://www.detroitccw.com
http://detroitcpl.blogspot.com
http://facebook.com/MichiganCCW
I'll let you know of their response when they reply.
So, I did a little research on the Internet and found an item from 2007 that suggested that IHOP coporate policy may differ from the rule that the Jefferson location has adopted.
So, I used the form at IHOP's Corporate Web Site to pose the following email:
Hello. I am a frequent customer of the IHOP chain in the Detroit area - the Royal Oak, MI and the downtown Detroit locations.
I am a credentialled firearms trainer who has a state of Michigan issued Concealed Pistol License. I carry a firearm wherever I can lawfully carry. In Michigan, it is lawful to either openly carry a pistol in a holster, if the person can legally possess a firearm, or carry a concealed firearm, if licensed, such as myself.
It was recently reported in a local story here in Detroit, that the IHOP location in Detroit does not allow firearms. If this info is true, I will stop patronizing your chain and advise my family, friends, and readers of my blog to also not eat at this establishment.
Will you please state your corporate policy on the lawful carry of firearms?
The story appreared at the following url:
http://detnews.com/article/20100412/OPINION03/4120333/No-guns--just-pancakes-at-Jefferson-Avenue-IHOP
Regards,
Rick Ector
http://www.detroitccw.com
http://detroitcpl.blogspot.com
http://facebook.com/MichiganCCW
I'll let you know of their response when they reply.
Answers: Cover Versus Concealment Quiz
For the following scenarios, the correct response (i.e. "covered" or "concealed") is highlighted.
A. Standing behind bushes - Covered or Concealed?
B. Standing in shadows - Covered or Concealed?
C. Standing behind curtains - Covered or Concealed?
D. Positioned behind a couch - Covered or Concealed?
E. Sitting in an automobile - Covered or Concealed?
F. Positioned behind an automobile engine block - Covered or Concealed?
G. Standing behind a refrigerator - Covered or Concealed?
H. Behind a 6 inch thick oak door - Covered or Concealed?
I. Behind a tall bookcase full of thick textbooks - Covered or Concealed?
J. Standing behind a wide tree - Covered or Concealed?
K. Standing behind the corner of a building - Covered or Concealed?
How do you do?
A. Standing behind bushes - Covered or Concealed?
B. Standing in shadows - Covered or Concealed?
C. Standing behind curtains - Covered or Concealed?
D. Positioned behind a couch - Covered or Concealed?
E. Sitting in an automobile - Covered or Concealed?
F. Positioned behind an automobile engine block - Covered or Concealed?
G. Standing behind a refrigerator - Covered or Concealed?
H. Behind a 6 inch thick oak door - Covered or Concealed?
I. Behind a tall bookcase full of thick textbooks - Covered or Concealed?
J. Standing behind a wide tree - Covered or Concealed?
K. Standing behind the corner of a building - Covered or Concealed?
How do you do?
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Avoiding Road Rage And Other Forms Of Social Violence
A road rage incident, like all other forms of social violence, is largely avoidable if at least one person involved chooses not to pursue the contest. Social violence occurs when two people agree on some level to engage in a violent contest usually after a series of escalating events.
In contrast, it differs materially from asocial violence as only one participant, usually known as the assailant, attacks another without provocation. A classic example of social violence is a road rage incident whereas a robbery attempt is a prime example of asocial violence. This article will solely discuss social violence, within the context of a road rage incident, and offer suggestions as how to avoid being a participant.
Social Violence Is An Implied Agreement To Engage In Combat
A road rage incident begins when one driver is particularly annoyed at another driver for a perceived slight and responds in kind with an escalating response. At this point, the first "annoyed" driver could have let his pet peeve go without responding or found a way to safely remove himself from the situation. However, he instead chose to issue an escalating response.
Now, at this point, the driver who now receives the escalated response from the first driver has a choice to make: respond back with an escalating gesture or action or let the entire matter go. If this series of escalating responses from both drivers continues without either backing down, a violent confrontation may result.
About a week ago, the media reported that a road rage incident occurred in Farmington Hills, Michigan. According to statements made by the authorities, a driver felt that he was being followed too closely by the vehicle which was immediately behind him.
Apparently, the first driver was irked enough to engage in an action known as a brake-check. A brake check occurs when a driver aggressively brakes or slows down his vehicle which forces the driver of the following vehicle to aggressively slow down his car so that he will avoid crashing into the rear of the car in front of him. Clearly, an alternative response could have been changing lanes and letting the "aggressive" trailing driver have the lane.
Sometime after the brake-check, both cars were stopped at a traffic signal. The driver in the trailing vehicle had several options at his disposal: slow down his rate of speed, pass the car on the right side, call the authorities and complain about a driver using his car as a deadly weapon, or respond with an escalating gesture.
The following driver chose to escalate the incident by getting out of his vehicle to have at least a verbal confrontation with the driver who brake-checked. From there, the incident escalated to a point where the leading driver produced a handgun and shot the driver in the trailing car.
It should be evident by now, that both participants in this incident bear responsibility for the series of escalating events that resulted in a shooting. At any point in time, either participant could have let the matter go and went about their normal course of business for the day.
Neither person was "big enough to be the better man" by refusing to escalate their participation in the incident. As a result, one person was shot and the other faces the prospect of spending a few years behind bars.
Avoiding Social Violence Is A Matter Of Choice
You can significantly lessen the odds that you will be in a road rage incident that escalates into violence by choosing to always adopt a non-escalation policy. As such, you have made the conscious decision not to respond to the actions of another driver. In practical terms, you will not do any of the following actions: glare at the other driver, raise your middle finger, yell, or honk your horn in retaliation for a perceived slight.
Adopting this stance is easy to say and is admittedly hard to do at times. In fact, I will personally testify that it gets easier with practice but still taxes my patience. To illustrate, I was crossing a major street in Detroit a few weeks ago, when all of a sudden a car swerved into my lane and cut me off so that the driver could arrive at a fast-food restauarant.
I braked, swerved to avoid his car, and did not lean into my horn. A friend who was with me at the time remarked that it was surprising that I didn't let the other driver know about his trespass. He probably didn't even realize that he was almost in an accident.
I reminded my friend that I have a Concealed Pistol License and that I was armed. As such, if I got involved in a petty dispute about an "almost-accident" the exchange could have possibly escalated into a deadly encounter. The last thing that I would want is my picture platered all over TV with a voice-over informing the general public that I shot somebody because he almost hit my car.
Bottom Line:
Having a CPL is a responsibility that necessitates that you "be the bigger person" even if your actions of non-escalation make others think you are acting timidly or cowardly towards an aggressor who doesn't endanger your safety. If you lose your cool over a petty but non-life threatening trespass, someone will probably get shot and possibly killed and you will be sent to prison.
Furthermore, don't make the mistake of applying this policy of non-escalation only with respect to driving. Use it in all other contexts of your life: someone mistakely bumps into you, accidentally knocks over your drink, or snatches up the parking spot that you were waiting so patiently for the last 5 minutes. It is far too easy for a minor trespass to blossom into a full-blown confrontation.
Do what I do: Adopt a policy of non-escalation and "keep it moving."
In contrast, it differs materially from asocial violence as only one participant, usually known as the assailant, attacks another without provocation. A classic example of social violence is a road rage incident whereas a robbery attempt is a prime example of asocial violence. This article will solely discuss social violence, within the context of a road rage incident, and offer suggestions as how to avoid being a participant.
Social Violence Is An Implied Agreement To Engage In Combat
A road rage incident begins when one driver is particularly annoyed at another driver for a perceived slight and responds in kind with an escalating response. At this point, the first "annoyed" driver could have let his pet peeve go without responding or found a way to safely remove himself from the situation. However, he instead chose to issue an escalating response.
Now, at this point, the driver who now receives the escalated response from the first driver has a choice to make: respond back with an escalating gesture or action or let the entire matter go. If this series of escalating responses from both drivers continues without either backing down, a violent confrontation may result.
About a week ago, the media reported that a road rage incident occurred in Farmington Hills, Michigan. According to statements made by the authorities, a driver felt that he was being followed too closely by the vehicle which was immediately behind him.
Apparently, the first driver was irked enough to engage in an action known as a brake-check. A brake check occurs when a driver aggressively brakes or slows down his vehicle which forces the driver of the following vehicle to aggressively slow down his car so that he will avoid crashing into the rear of the car in front of him. Clearly, an alternative response could have been changing lanes and letting the "aggressive" trailing driver have the lane.
Sometime after the brake-check, both cars were stopped at a traffic signal. The driver in the trailing vehicle had several options at his disposal: slow down his rate of speed, pass the car on the right side, call the authorities and complain about a driver using his car as a deadly weapon, or respond with an escalating gesture.
The following driver chose to escalate the incident by getting out of his vehicle to have at least a verbal confrontation with the driver who brake-checked. From there, the incident escalated to a point where the leading driver produced a handgun and shot the driver in the trailing car.
It should be evident by now, that both participants in this incident bear responsibility for the series of escalating events that resulted in a shooting. At any point in time, either participant could have let the matter go and went about their normal course of business for the day.
Neither person was "big enough to be the better man" by refusing to escalate their participation in the incident. As a result, one person was shot and the other faces the prospect of spending a few years behind bars.
Avoiding Social Violence Is A Matter Of Choice
You can significantly lessen the odds that you will be in a road rage incident that escalates into violence by choosing to always adopt a non-escalation policy. As such, you have made the conscious decision not to respond to the actions of another driver. In practical terms, you will not do any of the following actions: glare at the other driver, raise your middle finger, yell, or honk your horn in retaliation for a perceived slight.
Adopting this stance is easy to say and is admittedly hard to do at times. In fact, I will personally testify that it gets easier with practice but still taxes my patience. To illustrate, I was crossing a major street in Detroit a few weeks ago, when all of a sudden a car swerved into my lane and cut me off so that the driver could arrive at a fast-food restauarant.
I braked, swerved to avoid his car, and did not lean into my horn. A friend who was with me at the time remarked that it was surprising that I didn't let the other driver know about his trespass. He probably didn't even realize that he was almost in an accident.
I reminded my friend that I have a Concealed Pistol License and that I was armed. As such, if I got involved in a petty dispute about an "almost-accident" the exchange could have possibly escalated into a deadly encounter. The last thing that I would want is my picture platered all over TV with a voice-over informing the general public that I shot somebody because he almost hit my car.
Bottom Line:
Having a CPL is a responsibility that necessitates that you "be the bigger person" even if your actions of non-escalation make others think you are acting timidly or cowardly towards an aggressor who doesn't endanger your safety. If you lose your cool over a petty but non-life threatening trespass, someone will probably get shot and possibly killed and you will be sent to prison.
Furthermore, don't make the mistake of applying this policy of non-escalation only with respect to driving. Use it in all other contexts of your life: someone mistakely bumps into you, accidentally knocks over your drink, or snatches up the parking spot that you were waiting so patiently for the last 5 minutes. It is far too easy for a minor trespass to blossom into a full-blown confrontation.
Do what I do: Adopt a policy of non-escalation and "keep it moving."
Monday, April 26, 2010
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - Saturday, May 8th, 2010
We are pleased to announce another CCW/CPL Class of this year! So, if you have a desire to qualify for a Concealed Pistol License, so that you can feel safe, register for our next class.
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition 7 Days in Advance ($150) and Save $25!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition ($175) within 7 days before class.
(Total Cost: $175 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: Online Now!
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition 7 Days in Advance ($150) and Save $25!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition ($175) within 7 days before class.
(Total Cost: $175 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: Online Now!
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Quiz: Cover Or Concealment?
In our state of Michigan compliant Concealed Pistol License (CPL) class, we teach students the difference between cover and concealment. The distinction is taught so that they know how to better protect themselves, should they be targeted for victimization.
If a citizen is attacked, his best strategy for survival is to get into motion and to increase the distance between himself and the attacker. While in motion, he needs to both access his firearm and to seek out "cover" from incoming fire from his armed attacker. Cover provides protection.
In contrast, concealment merely provides a person seeking its refuge the ability to be hidden from plain sight. A concealed person would not be protected from bullets that were discharged from a firearm towards his location.
For the following scenarios, answer whether a person would be "covered" or "concealed."
A. Standing behind bushes - Covered or Concealed?
B. Standing in shadows - Covered or Concealed?
C. Standing behind curtains - Covered or Concealed?
D. Positioned behind a couch - Covered or Concealed?
E. Sitting in an automobile - Covered or Concealed?
F. Positioned behind an automobile engine block - Covered or Concealed?
G. Standing behind a refrigerator - Covered or Concealed?
H. Behind a 6 inch thick oak door - Covered or Concealed?
I. Behind a tall bookcase full of thick textbooks - Covered or Concealed?
J. Standing behind a wide tree - Covered or Concealed?
K. Standing behind the corner of a building - Covered or Concealed?
How do you think you did? I'll post the answers in a couple of days.
If a citizen is attacked, his best strategy for survival is to get into motion and to increase the distance between himself and the attacker. While in motion, he needs to both access his firearm and to seek out "cover" from incoming fire from his armed attacker. Cover provides protection.
In contrast, concealment merely provides a person seeking its refuge the ability to be hidden from plain sight. A concealed person would not be protected from bullets that were discharged from a firearm towards his location.
For the following scenarios, answer whether a person would be "covered" or "concealed."
A. Standing behind bushes - Covered or Concealed?
B. Standing in shadows - Covered or Concealed?
C. Standing behind curtains - Covered or Concealed?
D. Positioned behind a couch - Covered or Concealed?
E. Sitting in an automobile - Covered or Concealed?
F. Positioned behind an automobile engine block - Covered or Concealed?
G. Standing behind a refrigerator - Covered or Concealed?
H. Behind a 6 inch thick oak door - Covered or Concealed?
I. Behind a tall bookcase full of thick textbooks - Covered or Concealed?
J. Standing behind a wide tree - Covered or Concealed?
K. Standing behind the corner of a building - Covered or Concealed?
How do you think you did? I'll post the answers in a couple of days.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
What's A Life Worth?
Putting a hard dollar value on a life is definitely an odd thing to do on a whim. For most folks, this conversation only comes up when fielding a call from their life insurance agent.
The customer is usually asked a series of questions to determine how much life insurance coverage is needed to take care of their loved ones left behind: balance on the mortgage, estimated college expenses of the children, and the cost for a proper burial. For most people, it is a wager most hope not to "collect on."
Another means of valuating one's worth is a simple mathematical computation in which a value is placed on all owned assets with the value of all liabilities being subtracted from it. It is a cold analysis, that when performed during an economic recession, corporate downsizing, and dwindling real estate valuations, that leaves many worth more dead than alive.
Certainly, folks who are currently both unemployed and "upside-down" in their mortgages should not be planning to kill themselves because of their current economic reality. Fortunes change, as all things - good or bad - never last.
After reading the local newspaper the other day, I came across another measuring-stick for the value of a life. It is the princely sum of $7. This was the amount of money that was realized from an armed robbery in which the murdered victim's body laid still on the street while the 18 year-old assailant rifled through its pockets.
As detailed in the paper, the assailant's lawyer has stated on the record that his client was the shooter. The issue, he argues, is whether he intended to shoot his targeted victim. The predator was apprehended mere moments after the shooting and shortly thereafter confessed to the police that he did not intend to shoot his victim after he refused to be a victim.
This difference in "intent" will determine how long the 18 year-old shooter will spend in prison. He could spend the rest of his life behind bars. His victim is dead and will remain dead because he refused to fork over $7.
The value of a life has been reduced to whatever paltry possessions a victim may have on him at the time he is targeted for a robbery. In this case, it was $7. The irony of this incident is that the killer could have gotten much more than $7 for a working handgun on the black market.
Apologists will excuse this "wayward" youth's indiscretion and apparent propensity for committing violent crime and place the blame on societal problems: poverty, breakdown of the family structure, poor education, and etc. They will say that it is no surprise that young people are being forced to a life of crime and that victims should just give the predators what they want.
Not that I am inclined to believe an 18 year-old predator who is facing the very real prospect of spending the rest of his days in prison, but let's play Devil's Advocate and assume that he is telling the truth. If the bad guys are not "intending" to shoot their targeted victims but shoot them anyway "by mistake," where is the down-side to always fighting back against rapes, robberies, and murders?
The cold hard reality is that complying with a predator is no guarantee that you won't be shot and killed. It could be intentional or accidental. From the victim's standpoint, there is no diference - dead is dead.
Stop valuing your life so cheaply. Buy a handgun, get a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, and carry both everywhere.
The customer is usually asked a series of questions to determine how much life insurance coverage is needed to take care of their loved ones left behind: balance on the mortgage, estimated college expenses of the children, and the cost for a proper burial. For most people, it is a wager most hope not to "collect on."
Another means of valuating one's worth is a simple mathematical computation in which a value is placed on all owned assets with the value of all liabilities being subtracted from it. It is a cold analysis, that when performed during an economic recession, corporate downsizing, and dwindling real estate valuations, that leaves many worth more dead than alive.
Certainly, folks who are currently both unemployed and "upside-down" in their mortgages should not be planning to kill themselves because of their current economic reality. Fortunes change, as all things - good or bad - never last.
After reading the local newspaper the other day, I came across another measuring-stick for the value of a life. It is the princely sum of $7. This was the amount of money that was realized from an armed robbery in which the murdered victim's body laid still on the street while the 18 year-old assailant rifled through its pockets.
As detailed in the paper, the assailant's lawyer has stated on the record that his client was the shooter. The issue, he argues, is whether he intended to shoot his targeted victim. The predator was apprehended mere moments after the shooting and shortly thereafter confessed to the police that he did not intend to shoot his victim after he refused to be a victim.
This difference in "intent" will determine how long the 18 year-old shooter will spend in prison. He could spend the rest of his life behind bars. His victim is dead and will remain dead because he refused to fork over $7.
The value of a life has been reduced to whatever paltry possessions a victim may have on him at the time he is targeted for a robbery. In this case, it was $7. The irony of this incident is that the killer could have gotten much more than $7 for a working handgun on the black market.
Apologists will excuse this "wayward" youth's indiscretion and apparent propensity for committing violent crime and place the blame on societal problems: poverty, breakdown of the family structure, poor education, and etc. They will say that it is no surprise that young people are being forced to a life of crime and that victims should just give the predators what they want.
Not that I am inclined to believe an 18 year-old predator who is facing the very real prospect of spending the rest of his days in prison, but let's play Devil's Advocate and assume that he is telling the truth. If the bad guys are not "intending" to shoot their targeted victims but shoot them anyway "by mistake," where is the down-side to always fighting back against rapes, robberies, and murders?
The cold hard reality is that complying with a predator is no guarantee that you won't be shot and killed. It could be intentional or accidental. From the victim's standpoint, there is no diference - dead is dead.
Stop valuing your life so cheaply. Buy a handgun, get a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, and carry both everywhere.
My Web Site Is Down!
Due to a huge screw-up, my web site (http://www.detroitccw.com) is down! Grrrrrr
They tell me that it should be back up in an hour or two. In the meanwhile, let's make lemonade!
I am losing out on potential sales, so let's have a sale!
Get early-bird pricing on my CCW Class this Sunday! Register Now!
When I notice that it is back up, I'm gonna end the sale!
They tell me that it should be back up in an hour or two. In the meanwhile, let's make lemonade!
I am losing out on potential sales, so let's have a sale!
Get early-bird pricing on my CCW Class this Sunday! Register Now!
When I notice that it is back up, I'm gonna end the sale!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Top Seven Things That Make People Feel Safe But Shouldn't
I have a lot of conversations with people who entrust their safety and well-being on the presence of certain things being by them. In my opinion, their comfort level is unreasonably justified. As such, in this post I will document the top seven things that make people unjustifiably feel safe and explain why they might want to rethink their position.
1. Daylight
Many people make the mistake of believing that they are safe because the sun is shining. Make no mistake about it, people get raped, robbed, and victimized during the day. For example, not too long ago a WWII veteran was beaten in broad daylight. The story was picked up and carried by the CNN News Network to the horrors of all who witnessed the victim being struck 22 times in his face by a carjacker.
2. Witnesses
Many people mistakenly believe that if they are in an area where others are located, a crime against them will not occur. Nothing could be further from the truth. Detroit is a town where you can't rely upon complete strangers coming to your aid. Just the other day, a woman was allegedly run off the road and abducted while witnesses were present. The witnesses did nothing to intervene of the victim's behalf.
3. Security Guards
It would be complete folly to assume that a security guard, especially one who is not armed, would be willing to come to your aid. They are not employed to serve as your bodyguard. Their job is to "observe and report." They are not law enforcement officers who have a duty to intervene if they witness a crime.
4. Your Drive-Way
Many people prematurely release a sigh of relief when they finally make it home from a full day of activities. In many cases, this sense of comfort was misguided, as many folks are being robbed in front of their very homes. The victims, in all likelihood, did not maintain their awareness level once they arrived home. All it takes is a second or two for an unaware victim to be robbed.
5. "No Guns Allowed" Signs
Just the other day, a local IHOP established a "no weapons" policy in their establishment. These signs do not make any place more safe. In fact, just the opposite occurs. Law-abiding citizens who legally carry firearms will not visit and criminals will now know that everyone in the location is not armed. Thus, it is now a perfect place to rob. Criminals, by definition, do not obey laws or signs. If you are wise, you will avoid places that are designated as Pistol-Free Zones.
6. Personal Protection Orders (PPO)
A PPO is a court order that specifies that a designated person is not to make contact with or come within a specified distance to another person. In short, it is just a piece of paper. If a deranged individual has made up his mind that he is going to hurt someone, he is not going to let a piece of paper stop him regardless of the consequences. The local newspapers routinely run stories in which several ex-boyfriends of victims - with active PPOs - have been charged with murder.
7. Video Cameras
A video camera is a device that records events. It is not personal protection device. As such, it is incapable of protecting anybody. However, it may provide evidence that a crime has occurred and it may identify the person who committed the crime. It would foolish to believe that a camera is not only going to deter a crime but is also going to protect anyone near it. Last summer, seven school kids where shot at a bus stop in Detroit. The entire incident was caught on video. The kids were still shot and harmed, as the camera did not nothing to protect them, as expected.
Detroit and its surrounding suburbs are not very safe these days. All citizens would be wise to do all they can to ensure that they and their families are safe at all times. Care must be made to not falsely rely upon any one thing to provide safety, especially where it is unwarranted. In this article, we have argued that the following do not assure your safety: sunlight, witnesses, security guards, your own driveway, pistol-free zones, and video cameras.
1. Daylight
Many people make the mistake of believing that they are safe because the sun is shining. Make no mistake about it, people get raped, robbed, and victimized during the day. For example, not too long ago a WWII veteran was beaten in broad daylight. The story was picked up and carried by the CNN News Network to the horrors of all who witnessed the victim being struck 22 times in his face by a carjacker.
2. Witnesses
Many people mistakenly believe that if they are in an area where others are located, a crime against them will not occur. Nothing could be further from the truth. Detroit is a town where you can't rely upon complete strangers coming to your aid. Just the other day, a woman was allegedly run off the road and abducted while witnesses were present. The witnesses did nothing to intervene of the victim's behalf.
3. Security Guards
It would be complete folly to assume that a security guard, especially one who is not armed, would be willing to come to your aid. They are not employed to serve as your bodyguard. Their job is to "observe and report." They are not law enforcement officers who have a duty to intervene if they witness a crime.
4. Your Drive-Way
Many people prematurely release a sigh of relief when they finally make it home from a full day of activities. In many cases, this sense of comfort was misguided, as many folks are being robbed in front of their very homes. The victims, in all likelihood, did not maintain their awareness level once they arrived home. All it takes is a second or two for an unaware victim to be robbed.
5. "No Guns Allowed" Signs
Just the other day, a local IHOP established a "no weapons" policy in their establishment. These signs do not make any place more safe. In fact, just the opposite occurs. Law-abiding citizens who legally carry firearms will not visit and criminals will now know that everyone in the location is not armed. Thus, it is now a perfect place to rob. Criminals, by definition, do not obey laws or signs. If you are wise, you will avoid places that are designated as Pistol-Free Zones.
6. Personal Protection Orders (PPO)
A PPO is a court order that specifies that a designated person is not to make contact with or come within a specified distance to another person. In short, it is just a piece of paper. If a deranged individual has made up his mind that he is going to hurt someone, he is not going to let a piece of paper stop him regardless of the consequences. The local newspapers routinely run stories in which several ex-boyfriends of victims - with active PPOs - have been charged with murder.
7. Video Cameras
A video camera is a device that records events. It is not personal protection device. As such, it is incapable of protecting anybody. However, it may provide evidence that a crime has occurred and it may identify the person who committed the crime. It would foolish to believe that a camera is not only going to deter a crime but is also going to protect anyone near it. Last summer, seven school kids where shot at a bus stop in Detroit. The entire incident was caught on video. The kids were still shot and harmed, as the camera did not nothing to protect them, as expected.
Detroit and its surrounding suburbs are not very safe these days. All citizens would be wise to do all they can to ensure that they and their families are safe at all times. Care must be made to not falsely rely upon any one thing to provide safety, especially where it is unwarranted. In this article, we have argued that the following do not assure your safety: sunlight, witnesses, security guards, your own driveway, pistol-free zones, and video cameras.
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - Sunday, April 25, 2010
We are pleased to announce another CCW/CPL Class of this year! So, if you have a desire to qualify for a Concealed Pistol License, so that you can feel safe, register for our next class.
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition 7 Days in Advance ($150) and Save $25!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition ($175) within 7 days before class.
(Total Cost: $175 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: Online Now!
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition 7 Days in Advance ($150) and Save $25!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition ($175) within 7 days before class.
(Total Cost: $175 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: Online Now!
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Answers: Michigan Concealed Pistol License Quiz
Here are the answers to the quiz I posted a few days ago...
Answer either 'True' or 'False.'
1. It is not necessary to have a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to have a handgun in your home.
TRUE. A concealed pistol license is necessary to carry a concealed pistol outside your home or your place of business.
2. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License is recognized/honored in 35 other states.
TRUE. A Michigan CPL is recognized in 35 other states. See the Michigan Attorney General's page to learn which ones apply.
3. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you do not need a 10-Day Purchase Permit to buy a handgun.
TRUE. A CPL serves as your 10-Day Purchase Permit. Thus, you can go straight to the gun shop to buy a handgun.
4. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you can borrow any registered handgun without registering it in your name.
TRUE. A person with a CPL can borrow any legally registered handgun without registering it in his name.
5. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License allows you to have a loaded handgun in any location in an automobile.
TRUE. A CPL allows you to have a loaded handgun in any area of your vehicle in the state of Michigan.
6. Even though it is recorded in the LEIN System, an armed motorist with a Concealed Pistol License must disclose that he is licensed and armed when stopped by law enforcement.
TRUE. You have an affirmative duty to notify law enforcement, when stopped, to immediately disclose that you have a CPL and have a loaded handgun on your person.
7. You do not need a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to legally open carry in Michigan.
TRUE. Open Carry of a registered handgun is legal in Michigan - without a permit.
8. It is legal for a person with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to open carry in a "Pistol-Free" Zone.
TRUE. A CPL allows you to "Open Carry" in a Pistol-FREE Zone. However, you must respect private property rights. So, you may be refused entry but you will not have violated any Michigan law.
9. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License only authorizes the concealed carry of only one pistol at a time.
FALSE. You can conceal-carry as many pistols you desire.
10. A fraudulently obtained Michigan Concealed Pistol License is null and void retroactive to the date of issuance.
TRUE. It isn't worth the time or money to get a hook-up CCW Class Certificate. If you get caught, you face a four year felony charge punishable by imprisonment and a $2,500 fine.
How did you do?
Answer either 'True' or 'False.'
1. It is not necessary to have a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to have a handgun in your home.
TRUE. A concealed pistol license is necessary to carry a concealed pistol outside your home or your place of business.
2. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License is recognized/honored in 35 other states.
TRUE. A Michigan CPL is recognized in 35 other states. See the Michigan Attorney General's page to learn which ones apply.
3. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you do not need a 10-Day Purchase Permit to buy a handgun.
TRUE. A CPL serves as your 10-Day Purchase Permit. Thus, you can go straight to the gun shop to buy a handgun.
4. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you can borrow any registered handgun without registering it in your name.
TRUE. A person with a CPL can borrow any legally registered handgun without registering it in his name.
5. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License allows you to have a loaded handgun in any location in an automobile.
TRUE. A CPL allows you to have a loaded handgun in any area of your vehicle in the state of Michigan.
6. Even though it is recorded in the LEIN System, an armed motorist with a Concealed Pistol License must disclose that he is licensed and armed when stopped by law enforcement.
TRUE. You have an affirmative duty to notify law enforcement, when stopped, to immediately disclose that you have a CPL and have a loaded handgun on your person.
7. You do not need a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to legally open carry in Michigan.
TRUE. Open Carry of a registered handgun is legal in Michigan - without a permit.
8. It is legal for a person with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to open carry in a "Pistol-Free" Zone.
TRUE. A CPL allows you to "Open Carry" in a Pistol-FREE Zone. However, you must respect private property rights. So, you may be refused entry but you will not have violated any Michigan law.
9. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License only authorizes the concealed carry of only one pistol at a time.
FALSE. You can conceal-carry as many pistols you desire.
10. A fraudulently obtained Michigan Concealed Pistol License is null and void retroactive to the date of issuance.
TRUE. It isn't worth the time or money to get a hook-up CCW Class Certificate. If you get caught, you face a four year felony charge punishable by imprisonment and a $2,500 fine.
How did you do?
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Michigan Concealed Pistol License Quiz
Here's a quiz I created to test your Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) knowledge. I will post the answers in a future post.
The first two people who respond to this post with the correct answers (sent to my email address: info@detroitccw.com) will be allowed to enroll in my next CCW Class on Sunday, April 25th for only $99. If you wish to participate in the contest, send me an email. The deadline for submissions is 12 noon Wednesday.
Answer either 'True' or 'False.'
1. It is not necessary to have a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to have a handgun in your home.
2. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License is recognized/honored in 35 other states.
3. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you do not need a 10-Day Purchase Permit to buy a handgun.
4. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you can borrow any registered handgun without registering it in your name.
5. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License allows you to have a loaded handgun in any location in an automobile.
6. Even though it is recorded in the LEIN System, an armed motorist with a Concealed Pistol License must disclose that he is licensed and armed when stopped by law enforcement.
7. You do not need a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to legally open carry in Michigan.
8. It is legal for a person with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to open carry in a "Pistol-Free" Zone.
9. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License only authorizes the concealed carry of only one pistol at a time.
10. A fraudulently obtained Michigan Concealed Pistol License is null and void retroactive to the date of issuance.
Good Luck!
The first two people who respond to this post with the correct answers (sent to my email address: info@detroitccw.com) will be allowed to enroll in my next CCW Class on Sunday, April 25th for only $99. If you wish to participate in the contest, send me an email. The deadline for submissions is 12 noon Wednesday.
Answer either 'True' or 'False.'
1. It is not necessary to have a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to have a handgun in your home.
2. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License is recognized/honored in 35 other states.
3. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you do not need a 10-Day Purchase Permit to buy a handgun.
4. With a Michigan Concealed Pistol License, you can borrow any registered handgun without registering it in your name.
5. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License allows you to have a loaded handgun in any location in an automobile.
6. Even though it is recorded in the LEIN System, an armed motorist with a Concealed Pistol License must disclose that he is licensed and armed when stopped by law enforcement.
7. You do not need a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to legally open carry in Michigan.
8. It is legal for a person with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License to open carry in a "Pistol-Free" Zone.
9. A Michigan Concealed Pistol License only authorizes the concealed carry of only one pistol at a time.
10. A fraudulently obtained Michigan Concealed Pistol License is null and void retroactive to the date of issuance.
Good Luck!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - Saturday, April 10th, 2010
We are pleased to announce another CCW/CPL Class of this year! So, if you have a desire to qualify for a Concealed Pistol License, so that you can feel safe, register for our next class.
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition 7 Days in Advance ($150) and Save $25!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition ($175) within 7 days before class.
(Total Cost: $175 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: Online Now!
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition 7 Days in Advance ($150) and Save $25!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition ($175) within 7 days before class.
(Total Cost: $175 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: Online Now!
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Answers: Michigan CCW Eligibility Quiz
Here are the answers to yesterday's quiz:
1. All CPL applicants must specify a need to justify having the license.
False: MI PA 381 of 2000 changed Michigan's CPL issuance policy from "discretionary" to "shall issue." As a consequence, any applicant who meets the uniform criteria "shall" be issued a license.
2. A self-diagnosis of feeling depressed disqualifies an applicant for a CPL.
False: Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose a person with "clinial depression."
3. All CPL applicants must be citizens of the United States.
False: Resident Aliens are eligible for a state of Michigan CPL.
4. The CPL applicant's criminal background check must not reveal any misdemeanor convictions.
False: A misdemeanor conviction of an offense does not automatically disqualify a CPL applicant. However, a waiting period may apply for certain misdemeanor convictions.
5. The CPL applicant must not have ever had a protection order entered against him.
False: Only currently active protection orders bar a person from possessing or owning a firearm and getting a CPL.
6. It is illegal to be taught the CPL Class in your home.
False: A CPL Class can be taught anywhere as long as it meets all of the training requirements specified in Section 5j of 1927 PA 372.
7. It is a misdemeanor crime to submit a fraudulent CPL Class Certificate to a County Gun Board.
False: Submitting a fraudulent CPL Class Certificate to a County Gun Board is a felony punishable by a $2,500 fine, four years or imprisonment, or both.
8. All CPL applicants must appear before the County Gun Board before receiving a license.
False: Not all of Michigan's 83 County Gun Boards require a pre-licensure appearance.
9. It is legal for a law enforcement agency to charge CPL applicants a copying fee - not to exceed $5 - for copying expenses incurred for distributing the CPL Application.
False: PA 381 of 2000 prohibits law enforcement agencies from charging applicants any fees for the CPL Application Kit.
10. It is illegal to not disclose an expunged/set aside felony conviction on the CPL application.
False: It is legal to deny the existence of a set-aside conviction on your CPL Application.
So, how did you do?
BTW, all of the answers were "False."
1. All CPL applicants must specify a need to justify having the license.
False: MI PA 381 of 2000 changed Michigan's CPL issuance policy from "discretionary" to "shall issue." As a consequence, any applicant who meets the uniform criteria "shall" be issued a license.
2. A self-diagnosis of feeling depressed disqualifies an applicant for a CPL.
False: Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose a person with "clinial depression."
3. All CPL applicants must be citizens of the United States.
False: Resident Aliens are eligible for a state of Michigan CPL.
4. The CPL applicant's criminal background check must not reveal any misdemeanor convictions.
False: A misdemeanor conviction of an offense does not automatically disqualify a CPL applicant. However, a waiting period may apply for certain misdemeanor convictions.
5. The CPL applicant must not have ever had a protection order entered against him.
False: Only currently active protection orders bar a person from possessing or owning a firearm and getting a CPL.
6. It is illegal to be taught the CPL Class in your home.
False: A CPL Class can be taught anywhere as long as it meets all of the training requirements specified in Section 5j of 1927 PA 372.
7. It is a misdemeanor crime to submit a fraudulent CPL Class Certificate to a County Gun Board.
False: Submitting a fraudulent CPL Class Certificate to a County Gun Board is a felony punishable by a $2,500 fine, four years or imprisonment, or both.
8. All CPL applicants must appear before the County Gun Board before receiving a license.
False: Not all of Michigan's 83 County Gun Boards require a pre-licensure appearance.
9. It is legal for a law enforcement agency to charge CPL applicants a copying fee - not to exceed $5 - for copying expenses incurred for distributing the CPL Application.
False: PA 381 of 2000 prohibits law enforcement agencies from charging applicants any fees for the CPL Application Kit.
10. It is illegal to not disclose an expunged/set aside felony conviction on the CPL application.
False: It is legal to deny the existence of a set-aside conviction on your CPL Application.
So, how did you do?
BTW, all of the answers were "False."
Friday, April 2, 2010
Michigan CCW License Eligibility Quiz
Here's a quiz I created to test your Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) eligibility knowledge. I will post the answers in another post tomorrow.
The first person who elects to respond to this post with the correct answers (sent to my email address: info@detroitccw.com) will be allowed to enroll in my next CCW Class on Saturday, April 10th for only $99. If you wish to participate in the contest, send me an email. The deadline for submissions is 12 noon tomorrow.
Answer each question: True or False.
1. All CPL applicants must specify a need to justify having the license.
2. A self-diagnosis of feeling depressed disqualifies an applicant for a CPL.
3. All CPL applicants must be citizens of the United States.
4. The CPL applicant's criminal background check must not reveal any misdemeanor convictions.
5. The CPL applicant must not have ever had a protection order entered against him.
6. It is illegal to be taught the CPL Class in your home.
7. It is a misdemeanor crime to submit a fraudulent CPL Class Certificate to a County Gun Board.
8. All CPL applicants must appear before the County Gun Board before receiving a license.
9. It is legal for a law enforcement agency to charge CPL applicants a copying fee - not to exceed $5 - for copying expenses incurred for distributing the CPL Application.
10. It is illegal to not disclose an expunged/set aside felony conviction on the CPL application.
Good Luck!
The first person who elects to respond to this post with the correct answers (sent to my email address: info@detroitccw.com) will be allowed to enroll in my next CCW Class on Saturday, April 10th for only $99. If you wish to participate in the contest, send me an email. The deadline for submissions is 12 noon tomorrow.
Answer each question: True or False.
1. All CPL applicants must specify a need to justify having the license.
2. A self-diagnosis of feeling depressed disqualifies an applicant for a CPL.
3. All CPL applicants must be citizens of the United States.
4. The CPL applicant's criminal background check must not reveal any misdemeanor convictions.
5. The CPL applicant must not have ever had a protection order entered against him.
6. It is illegal to be taught the CPL Class in your home.
7. It is a misdemeanor crime to submit a fraudulent CPL Class Certificate to a County Gun Board.
8. All CPL applicants must appear before the County Gun Board before receiving a license.
9. It is legal for a law enforcement agency to charge CPL applicants a copying fee - not to exceed $5 - for copying expenses incurred for distributing the CPL Application.
10. It is illegal to not disclose an expunged/set aside felony conviction on the CPL application.
Good Luck!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
7 Things You Do Not Need To Get A Michigan CCW Permit
As a NRA credentialed firearms trainer, I have had many discussions with aspiring Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) applicants who were surprised that they met all of the non-educational qualifications. There seems to be a perception, that people with CPLs are without blemish or imperfection.
While it is true that CPL-holders are statistically more law-abiding than the general public, they are not perfect. In a nutshell, they met the statutorily defined requirements in PA 381 of 2000. This article will discuss the top seven (7) things that some aspiring CPL applicants worry about, but do not need, to qualify for a CPL.
1. US Citizenship
It is not necessary to be a citizen of the United States to apply for and to be issued a Michigan CPL. PA 381 of 2000, allows resident aliens to be issued concealed carry privileges. However, the non-citizen applicants must be in the US legally, as evidenced by a "Green Card," and must have been a resident of Michigan for at least the previous six months.
2. English Language Fluency/Proficiency
It is not necessary to speak and write the English language with perfect fluency to receive a Michigan CPL. However, they must meet the state's specified requirements. One such requirement is the completion of a Basic Pistol Safety Training Class.
It is not uncommon to envision a scenario whereby a person with a language barrier or a learning disability may have some challenges with some aspects of the training. However, a professional firearms training organization will make apropriate provisions to enable challenged students to satisfactorily meet the educational requirements of a CPL Class.
My personal opinion is that if a challenged person can get a state-issued Driver's License, he can get a state-issued CPL.
3. A Driver's License
It is not necessary for an applicant to have a Driver's License to qualify for a Michigan CPL. However, it can be inferred from the statute that the applicant should at least been previously issued a state of Michigan ID Card. For example, PA 381 of 2000 specifies that armed CPL-holders, when questioned by law enforcement, to present both Michigan ID and the CPL.
4. Prior Firearms Training Experience
All applicants for a Michigan CPL must complete a Basic Pistol Safety Training Class. It is in this class, whereby an applicant will learn and demonstrate the knowledge and ability that the state requires of its CPL-holders. Of course, it is important that aspiring licensees do their homework before deciding where to take a firearms training class; it must at least meet the minimum requirements specified in PA 381 of 2000.
5. A Perfect Background
It is not necessary to have a perfect background to be issued a Michigan CPL. However, the applicant must meet the requirements, as specified in the statute. Many aspiring CPL applicants make the assumption that any violation on their record automatically disqualifies them from consideration.
Most folks correctly know that a felony conviction bars a person from possessing and owning a handgun. Not being eligible for a CPL, under this scenario, is a truthful and logical conclusion. However, there are circumstances that may not be so "cut and dried."
For example, I have talked to many people who were convicted of "Driving While Impaired - First Offense" and mistakenly thought they were at least temporarily disqualified. The offense is not trivial but it doesn't disqualify a person from CPL licensure. Applicants should check the statute to determine their eligibility. Not doing so, can unnecessarily deny them an opportunity to acquire a CPL.
6. A Firearm
It is not a requirement to own a firearm to be issued a Michigan CPL. Certainly, most folks desiring to obtain a CPL will have plans to buy a handgun, but it's not necessary. Applicants who don't own handguns can rent and use them at the gun range when they satisfy the requirements of their Basic Pistol Safety Training Class.
Furthermore, a person may desire to get a CPL without ever having any intention of ever carrying a concealed handgun. This scenario exists when a person's spouse has a CPL and he/she gets a license to avoid potential hazards present in the law.
For example, if a licensed person has a pistol in the car and his unlicensed spouse is also present, there is a legal problem if he exits without taking the gun with him. Under these circumstances, the spouse is now possessing a concealed handgun in a car without a permit. As such, if discovered the spouse could be found guilty of a felony that is punishable by five years of imprisonment.
7. Perfect Driving Record
It is not necessary to have a perfect driving record to be issued a Michigan CPL. Many people mistakenly believe that a couple of unpaid parking tickets makes them ineligible for licensure. Civil infractions are not criminal offenses and are not relevant. However, if civil matters - such as this - left unpaid lead to a warrant being issued for an applicant's arrest, he would then be ineligible because "fugitives from justice" can't get a CPL.
Bottom Line:
The Michigan CPL is not a popularity contest. If an applicant meets the criteria, as specified in the statute, the state must - as a legal matter - issue the license. Thus, the only resources that should be consulted to determine eligibility should be the statute itself or a practicing attorney who is knowledgeable in that area of the law. To do otherwise, could prevent an aspiring applicant from getting licensed due to inaction. When in doubt, check the statute.
While it is true that CPL-holders are statistically more law-abiding than the general public, they are not perfect. In a nutshell, they met the statutorily defined requirements in PA 381 of 2000. This article will discuss the top seven (7) things that some aspiring CPL applicants worry about, but do not need, to qualify for a CPL.
1. US Citizenship
It is not necessary to be a citizen of the United States to apply for and to be issued a Michigan CPL. PA 381 of 2000, allows resident aliens to be issued concealed carry privileges. However, the non-citizen applicants must be in the US legally, as evidenced by a "Green Card," and must have been a resident of Michigan for at least the previous six months.
2. English Language Fluency/Proficiency
It is not necessary to speak and write the English language with perfect fluency to receive a Michigan CPL. However, they must meet the state's specified requirements. One such requirement is the completion of a Basic Pistol Safety Training Class.
It is not uncommon to envision a scenario whereby a person with a language barrier or a learning disability may have some challenges with some aspects of the training. However, a professional firearms training organization will make apropriate provisions to enable challenged students to satisfactorily meet the educational requirements of a CPL Class.
My personal opinion is that if a challenged person can get a state-issued Driver's License, he can get a state-issued CPL.
3. A Driver's License
It is not necessary for an applicant to have a Driver's License to qualify for a Michigan CPL. However, it can be inferred from the statute that the applicant should at least been previously issued a state of Michigan ID Card. For example, PA 381 of 2000 specifies that armed CPL-holders, when questioned by law enforcement, to present both Michigan ID and the CPL.
4. Prior Firearms Training Experience
All applicants for a Michigan CPL must complete a Basic Pistol Safety Training Class. It is in this class, whereby an applicant will learn and demonstrate the knowledge and ability that the state requires of its CPL-holders. Of course, it is important that aspiring licensees do their homework before deciding where to take a firearms training class; it must at least meet the minimum requirements specified in PA 381 of 2000.
5. A Perfect Background
It is not necessary to have a perfect background to be issued a Michigan CPL. However, the applicant must meet the requirements, as specified in the statute. Many aspiring CPL applicants make the assumption that any violation on their record automatically disqualifies them from consideration.
Most folks correctly know that a felony conviction bars a person from possessing and owning a handgun. Not being eligible for a CPL, under this scenario, is a truthful and logical conclusion. However, there are circumstances that may not be so "cut and dried."
For example, I have talked to many people who were convicted of "Driving While Impaired - First Offense" and mistakenly thought they were at least temporarily disqualified. The offense is not trivial but it doesn't disqualify a person from CPL licensure. Applicants should check the statute to determine their eligibility. Not doing so, can unnecessarily deny them an opportunity to acquire a CPL.
6. A Firearm
It is not a requirement to own a firearm to be issued a Michigan CPL. Certainly, most folks desiring to obtain a CPL will have plans to buy a handgun, but it's not necessary. Applicants who don't own handguns can rent and use them at the gun range when they satisfy the requirements of their Basic Pistol Safety Training Class.
Furthermore, a person may desire to get a CPL without ever having any intention of ever carrying a concealed handgun. This scenario exists when a person's spouse has a CPL and he/she gets a license to avoid potential hazards present in the law.
For example, if a licensed person has a pistol in the car and his unlicensed spouse is also present, there is a legal problem if he exits without taking the gun with him. Under these circumstances, the spouse is now possessing a concealed handgun in a car without a permit. As such, if discovered the spouse could be found guilty of a felony that is punishable by five years of imprisonment.
7. Perfect Driving Record
It is not necessary to have a perfect driving record to be issued a Michigan CPL. Many people mistakenly believe that a couple of unpaid parking tickets makes them ineligible for licensure. Civil infractions are not criminal offenses and are not relevant. However, if civil matters - such as this - left unpaid lead to a warrant being issued for an applicant's arrest, he would then be ineligible because "fugitives from justice" can't get a CPL.
Bottom Line:
The Michigan CPL is not a popularity contest. If an applicant meets the criteria, as specified in the statute, the state must - as a legal matter - issue the license. Thus, the only resources that should be consulted to determine eligibility should be the statute itself or a practicing attorney who is knowledgeable in that area of the law. To do otherwise, could prevent an aspiring applicant from getting licensed due to inaction. When in doubt, check the statute.