Has WA State Created the Perfect Storm to Increase Violent Crime?

During the mid-term elections (November 6, 2018) voters in Washington state passed two initiatives: I-940 and I-1639 which together create the perfect storm to increase violent crime in the state.

I-940 allows law enforcement officers to be held criminally liable for the use of force if it is determined that their actions were not "reasonable". I-940 removed the standard of "malice" that had previously protected police from prosecution except in the most extreme and egregious circumstances.

I-1639 restricts the self-defense rights of Washington citizens, and holds the individual gun-owner criminally liable for the actions of a criminal who steals a firearm and uses it in a crime.

Police officers in Washington are making comments on social media that under I-940 they will no longer be proactive or risk their lives to defend others knowing that they can face criminal charges for doing so. And can you blame them? Washington voters basically just said F*ck the Police.

Citizens in Washington if they choose to comply with I-1639 will find their ability to protect themselves from violent criminals severely restricted. Many citizens may choose not to comply with these draconian laws. Have we created a new class of criminal, the citizen who believes personal protection is more important than oppressive laws?

So, now police are less willing to respond and put themselves at risk. Citizens are limited in their ability to effectively defend themselves against violent attacks in their homes. Have we created the perfect storm allowing violent criminals to do as they please with out fear of the police or an armed citizen?

 

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