U.S. Crime Rates Have Stabilized

This is the interesting headline that Pravda used to cover a report from the US Department of Justice announcing that violent crime was at a 30 year low. Although no specific causes were cited, it is interesting to note that this year is the tenth anniversary of the passage of Florida's then controversial concealed carry statute. Florida's experience sparked the passage of similar must-issue laws in 33 additional states. Only six states still completely deny citizens the right to carry, and eleven others and D.C. have "discretionary" issue laws. Many believe that the increased number of armed citizens acts as a deterrent to criminals who prefer to look for safer pickings. I find it interesting that the most dangerous cities, like NY, LA, Chicago, and Washington are where it is difficult or impossible to get a permit.