It’s no surprise to us that crime is taking a nose-dive in the state of Illinois after they became the last state in the country to allow it’s citizens to carry concealed firearms. Numbers are now coming out that show just how much of an effect it’s had in it’s first few months.
“Just the idea that the criminals don’t know who’s armed and who isn’t has a deterrence effect,” said Richard Pearson, executive director of the Illinois State Rifle Association.
The number of robberies that have led to arrest in the city has dropped 20 percent from last year. Reports of burglary and vehicle thefts are also down over 20 percent. And finally in the first quarter, the city’s homicide rate was the lowest it’s been in 56 years.
These numbers are no coincidence.
As of this writing, the state has received over 80,000 applications for concealed carry permits and they have issued over 70,000 so far. Estimates point to 100,000 Illinois residents carrying firearms by the end of this year.
While the requirements are pretty strict, expensive ($600) and also require a 16-hour safety course, it’s well worth the citizens of Illinois to start protecting themselves. It’s time to get those crime stats down even further.
There was however, one questionable report of an armed citizen using a little too much force when he decided to chase after a robbery suspect and fire at him. Police, who were already in pursuit, had to take cover after hearing the shots fired because they were unsure of where they came from.
The man was not charged with any crime, but we’re always taught to keep our firearms holstered unless presented with a threat.
