Sheriff David Clarke Encourages Citizens to Arm Themselves

Sheriff David Clarke from Milwaukee advises citizens to arm themselves for their own protection. With cutbacks to police departments, calling 911 may no longer be the best option.

A report about the Sheriff on NPR reveals that despite the "outrage" by some that "this call to arms will make the Milwaukee area more dangerous not less," the Sheriff's statements are not unusual. He released a public service message that said, in part,

"With officers laid off and furloughed, simply calling 911 and waiting is no longer your best option...Consider taking a certified safety course in handling a firearm so you can defend yourself until we get there. You have a duty to protect yourself and your family."

In San Bernardino, the city attorney told residents in November to "lock their doors and load their guns" during a city council meeting.

In Detroit, the police union, (whose officials just got raises of up to 50%) handed out flyers warning citizens to enter Detroit at their own risk.

Listen to the NPR report here:

The truth is that even without cuts in police, 911 response times differ from city to city. If citizens can protect themselves, particularly women, they have a better chance of survival in a life-threatening situation.

Photo Source (Sheriff David Clarke): LATimes

Photo Source (flyer): CBSLocal

Follow @ReneeNal

Join the Conversation	You are following this conversation | stop following follow this conversation by email