In the state of Florida, there have been a number of shootings related to various crimes. Of course, the hot topic of gun control seems to be what people think is the most important issue stemming from many tragedies and crimes that have occurred in Florida.
There is no clear reason as to why gun crimes have increased so much in the state of Florida. However, it is difficult to ignore the fact that there are more gun owners in the state of Florida than there were ten years ago.
Easy Permit
In the state of Florida, the fact that someone can easily acquire a permit to carry a concealed weapon—coupled with the fact that the state has the “stand your ground” law—could attribute to the increase in shootings.
In fact, after the Newtown, Connecticut massacre, gun sales in Florida skyrocketed and the state of Florida processed more than 290,000 background checks for firearm purchases in just three months, which has increased significantly since 2004.
Background Checks
In 2010, there was a 98.5 percent approval rate for gun licenses in Florida. Unlike other states, the state of Florida does not re-examine a background check once it is approved. Therefore, if anyone is subsequently disqualified from being a gun owner due to any later crimes or felony convictions, the state is not going to find out right away.
Gun Owners
Many gun owners purchase their guns from private sellers. This makes it more difficult to track sales. In the past, Florida was behind in gun ownership, but today because of all these variables, the state of Florida is now catching up to the national average.
An Orlando Incident
In Orlando, a 2011 police shooting highlighted the impact of the gun show market in Florida. An angry resident unloaded 30 shots from two assault firearms. When police arrived, he shot at the two officers, injuring one in the process. Although no one died as a result of this incident, it was learned later that the gunman purchased the rifles at a Florida gun show after he turned 18 years old.
It was later discovered that the teenager also had mental health issues. This probably would have been discovered earlier if a background check was performed prior to the file purchase.
After taking these factors into consideration, it is possible that these reasons play a role in the increase in shootings in the state of Florida. Many experts think that the ease of owning a gun in Florida only exasperates the problem and even increase the homicide rate in the state.
Involved in a Gun Crime? Contact an Knowledgeable Gun Crime Attorney
If you have been charged with a gun crime and need legal representation, contact an experienced gun crime attorney today at (561) 444-9529.
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