Talk of the Town

By AG

January 15, 2009 9:07 AM | Link to this

as my dad always said “shoot first, ask questions later”

By Lou

January 15, 2009 9:13 AM | Link to this

I live in EAV and go out there often. This incident hits very close to home. I do not question the victim’s actions - I am happy he had a gun. Unfortunately, if our leaders won’t listen, we are all going to have to arm ourselves. I have never touched a gun in my live, but am now considering getting one. The Atlanta city government will only have itself to thank for the brigade of armed citizens around town.

By MARTA Evangelist

January 15, 2009 9:17 AM | Link to this

I think it is AWESOME that this waste of humanity is now dead. Bottom line: anyone that would pull a gun on an innocent person does not deserve to live.

By DannyX

January 15, 2009 9:20 AM | Link to this

Unfortunately there will have to be a few other incidents like this before the thugs get the message. We’re sick of it. Its gotten so bad people are afraid to leave their homes because they are afraid they will be a victim of a break-in or they will be robbed at gun point.

The police are totally unprepared and lack the resources to combat the recent crime wave. The lack of police in Atlanta and DeKalb County is unacceptable. These two jurisdictions are famous for meeting with residents, repeating the same tired script then disappearing until the next incident.

The media is the same way. They continually down play the crime in places like Grant Park, Midtown, East Lake and Dekalb County. The fact is in-town neighborhoods have been dealing with high crime levels for years. Well guess what? We don’t have to accept a high level of crime just because we choose to live in the city.

Talk, talk, talk, is all we ever hear. Excuses, excuses, and more excuses. We are sick of it. We’ll deal with it ourselves if we have to.

By Ljenkins

January 15, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this

I caution from being to reactionary, but it is starting to get scary. I live in EAV as well and have parked in that lot many times. I’ve never owned a gun, but I think I may have to purchase one. You only get one chance at life. I don’t want to take some young dumb kids life, but I don’t want me or my loved ones to go out like that either.

By George

January 15, 2009 9:25 AM | Link to this

Great job by the man who shot the robber. I don’t feel sorry for the dead man for one second. It is time we fight back. If an robber ever pulls a gun on me I will blow his head off too.

By fed up

January 15, 2009 9:25 AM | Link to this

I find it unbelieveable that people don’t arm themselves. It is virtually impossible for a pol,ice officer to be everywhere and when a criminal tries to attack you need to be prepared to defend youself. I have a concealed carry license and have a gun. I go to the shooting range about 3-4 times a year to be sure I can hit the target. I also carry a civilian taser. I would opt to use that if there was only one perp, more than one I’m pulling out the gun. “I carry a TASER because I can’t carry a copy”.

By BreezyATL

January 15, 2009 9:26 AM | Link to this

This person had every right to defend himself. We need to take our neighborhoods back by any “legal” means necessary. I shouldn’t have to live in fear in my own home and not patronage the restaurants in my neighborhood because of some knuckleheads that want to rob me of what I work hard for. No way. When I get my firearm and license to carry, I can promise you that I will defend myself in the same manner that this person did. Please believe it.

By Jeff

January 15, 2009 9:27 AM | Link to this

I live in the area, VERY close, and frequent the bars down there often, and shop at the Ace Hardware alot.

Its unfortunate that it has to come to this. Was the victim justified? Of course. How would you like your money stolen, car stolen, wife beat up and probably raped? Thats a dumb question.

The problem I have is to get a pistol permit, takes months! Criminals can get them in 5 minutes.

I have had 2 break ins, and 1 attempted break in. I will not hesitate to defend my family and possesions, and would not lose a minute of sleep for taking some criminal thug off the streets forever. Soon the criminals will not be so bold when people arm themselves and aren’t afraid to shoot back. Nearly everyone I know in this neighborhood is armed now.

What i can’t wait to hear is those people who seem to think you can’t fight crime with a gun. I would like to hear thier ideas on how to fight crime!

PS. Way to go for the victim. Our neighborhood is a little safer now. Thank You.

By Matt

January 15, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this

I feel very safe, I’ve got a Mossberg next to my bed loaded with 8 rounds of buck shot.

By jbgotcha

January 15, 2009 9:30 AM | Link to this

This sucks. Gun violence is awful, no matter the circumstances.

By Dee

January 15, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

I do not feel very safe at all. I live in DeKalb County and the response time has been horrible in the past. I’ve had a couple of incidents where my alarm has gone off, once in the middle of the night and another time when I changed the pass code and triggered the silent emergency alarm which immediately contacted the police. It took them 38 minutes the first time and a whopping 1 hour 12 minutes for the second. It took so long for them to respond, I forgot the alarm activated. Thank GOD, it was nothing serious.

By joseph ave. freeze-out

January 15, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

I also live in East Atlanta and have definitely noticed a rise in crime. Several homes on my street have been broken into and a neighbor of mine was recently carjacked.

There are several decrepit and unoccupied structures near my home where you see vagrants entering and exiting at all hours of the day. I have personally witnessed people selling drugs in the parking lots of local convenience stores in EAV.

However, I must admit I do see police patrolling the area often. The APD presence is definitely visible. It just seems that it is not enough.

I have lived in the area for 13 years and I have never seen the level of crime so high. I run/walk daily in the area and I am constantly watching my back. I am a 40-year-old man and I now have started to reconsider walking around EAV by myself at night. We all should.

My new fear is the death of one of the great Atlanta neighborhoods in EAV. So many shops have closed recently due to the economy and I hope this doesn’t extend to the bars and restaurants. There still is plenty of free, well-lit parking. Given what happened last night, I’m not sure that is enough.

Pointing the blame is fruitless. Immediate action is required! More police are needed (how long will that take, I wonder?) to be brought in to help our wonderful neighborhood see some semblance of safety soon.

By Tired

January 15, 2009 9:58 AM | Link to this

“If you live by the sword, you die by the sword.” This thug who intended to rob this couple got what he was going to do to the couple. He did not care about what he was trying to do to anyone else, but he didn’t realize he got more than he bargained for.

It’s high time for these criminals to think twice about approaching someone because the intended victim just may fight back. Here’s an idea for criminals: go to school, get a job and contribute to society. Noooooo… that’s too hard for these criminals, they’d rather take from someone who is working hard to make it in life.

My personal opinion is Atlanta already had it’s own share of criminal activity, but crime rose drastically when these hoodlums from New Orleans came to town. They brought with them the same hood and ghetto mentality. They destroyed New Orleans and are trying to do the same in Atlanta. Personally, I wish they would go back

A couple with 3 kids from New Orleans moved in across the street from me and they were the most ghetto, loud, no respect-having for anyone people I’ve ever come in contact with. Our neighborhood was nice and quiet and they moved in and would argue and physically fight in the street. Thank God they moved earlier this week. Peace and quiet has now returned to our quiet community.

By Dee

January 15, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

Good for the victim that saved his life. Unfortunately, taking a life may affect him to some degree, but I believe that the victim defended himself and his actions were very justified. If he had not done so, the passenger and the victim more than likely would have been murdered.

This is why we are entitled to have permits to carry, right? The citizens can’t wait for the police to arrive. The police are here to protect and serve; they can’t prevent the crimes from happening. The only time the can prevent the crime from occurring is when one of these “really smart” individuals commit the crimes right in front of the police.

By Elliott

January 15, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

I believe in Gun Control.

I use two hands

By Dawgs2009

January 15, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

The more white people that move into these gentrificated neighborhoods will eventually decrease the number of impovershed blacks(Thugs)in the area.

Don’t be afraid of these low lifes. Buy the houses and fix them up. Spend money in the bars and restaurants, but be careful (Nothing good can come from staying out after midnight). I would also suggest buying a big, loud dog to roam the house and yard.

These were once really nice intown communities before the blacks ruined it 40 years ago. Time to take them back! They can move to Clayton or Rockdale counties and be right at home.

By edward

January 15, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

Crimes like this are going to happen more often. Especially in this economy with people losing their jobs and homes. People should be preared to defend themselves.

By notlivinginATLanymore

January 15, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

Yes, the intended victim was absolutely justified in shooting that waste of human life. Yes, crime in EAV, Grant Park, and the other surrounding neighborhoods is getting worse. My family has been the victim of multiple crimes, as have ALL of our friends who live in town. We chose to move out of EAV 6 months ago because of the unsafe environment we were living in. We live in a very safe town now far, far from Georgia, and what a relief it is. Had we stayed there, we would have definitely bought a gun or two. Seems like that is the only way to feel safe there… or people could just move away.

By Over Shirley

January 15, 2009 10:05 AM | Link to this

I live in Midtown and work downtown… the only time I see cops is when they are working traffic control for private conventions and game at Philips Arena. Behind my building I watch drug dealers ply their trade all night long (Cypress between 7th and 8th and a block off of Peachtree) I call. And I call. And I call 911 over and over again. By the time the cops show up (if they bother to do so at all), the dealers are gone. The cops in this city simply DO NOT CARE. And neither does our useless Mayor — otherwise she would have been out in front of this years ago.

By mr man

January 15, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

bravo for intended victim.

i’m in that area all the time too. and i’m either packing a .38 or .357sig glock. not going to have it happen to me

so where are the gun-right opponents?

By Geezer

January 15, 2009 10:08 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the victim for protecting himself and his family.

I live in Grant Park and frequent EAL often. Until recently, I’ve never felt the need to arm myself. Times have changed. I’ll be applying for LTC and purchasing a handgun. The police can’t be everywhere, so it’s up to us decent law abiding citizens to pick up the slack. With the economy tanking, these types of crime will definitely increase.

By HELP

January 15, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this

What we need first and foremost is more JAIL space to house the criminals. There are so many on intown streets because the court system is a revolving door since there is NOWHERE to put these criminals! We need more police, DEFINITELY, but until the police have somewhere to take the trash then the problem will not go away. FULTON COUNTY AND METRO ATLANTA NEED A NEW JAIL/PRISON!!!

By What a Stupid Question

January 15, 2009 10:11 AM | Link to this

“Was the intended victim justified in in actions?”…What kind of stupid question was that? Was it that hard to come up w/ an assignment this morning? Why not just post the article and open up for comments?

Of course, he was justified. I am so, so, so proud of him and just say thank you to him.

And my favorite part is how he shot him 6 times, instead of 1. Make sure you win.

Thank you so much for your help, neighbor.

By Joslin

January 15, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

This is awful. Even though the robber was in the wrong, shooting and death is not the solution. I am saddened by the excessive violence.

By Poncey-Highland

January 15, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

We’ve been very nervous. Three armed robberies in a week in our parking lot, plus the recent high-profile incidents, and the mayor has the nerve to tell us we’re safe? Like many others, I’ve never touched a gun but now I’m seriously considering getting one. I would, however, like to thank the APD, zone 6 I think, who despite the furloughs have been keeping a close eye on our apartment. It’s greatly appreciated.

It’d be nice if the mayor and the city council quit bickering via the media and got together to fix this. That’s what we pay them for, right? And one last thing for Franklin: keep in mind you’re the mayor of all of Atlanta, not just downtown. Visiting businessmen are important, but if crime keeps up and the RESIDENTS leave, you’ll wish you’d taken our concerns more seriously.

And thanks to last night’s victim; sorry you had to go through it, but you absolutely did the right thing.

By rptrcub

January 15, 2009 10:13 AM | Link to this

I hope this teaches would-be criminals a lesson. I don’t like killing, but I will use my right to defend myself, my home and my loved ones.

By rambo

January 15, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this

guns dont kill people, I do.

By SWATs

January 15, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

I’m a female living in SW Atlanta. We have consistantly had door kick-ins with teens stealing flat screens. A home invasion happened at 11 pm at night to one of my neigbhors.

I’ve beefed up security in my home. A single woman, I probably would never walk around any place in the city alone.

I am a city girl though, so I don’t complain because I chose to live here. All in all, I do feel safe, you just have to be smart and keep an eye out.

By James

January 15, 2009 10:20 AM | Link to this

You know that law in Kennesaw that requires everyone to own a gun? It works. It deters crime. I live less than a mile from where this happened and I think it’s time for me to embrace the “Kennesaw Law.”

By They don't even know of the economy

January 15, 2009 10:21 AM | Link to this

These aren’t people who had jobs, and lost them b/c of the economy. These aren’t people who are actively looking for work and are frustrated b/c they can’t find any. These aren’t folks who were working in a bank until it merged last month. These aren’t folks who were making minimum wage last month. These are people who can’t define the word ‘economy’ and wouldn’t know a good or bad economy if it landed on their heads. They have simply heard that protection is down (yes, due to the economy, but they don’t know that) and are jumping on the chance. They’re taking over. We are just now finding out about their plan. It is about to be complete anarchy. This is something being implemented in phases. They’re seeing how far they can get every inch of the way … these robberies are tests. This test just failed. Congratulations to the true victim, and thank you for your help. There is no way to thank you enough.

By Elizabeth

January 15, 2009 10:23 AM | Link to this

Never owned a gun before. Now I do. Folks things are going to get even worse as the economy collapses. My husband and I are totally prepared to protect ourselves should the situation arise.

By Grant Parker

January 15, 2009 10:23 AM | Link to this

I can claim the Big 3. In my eight years of living in Grant Park, I have: 1. Been held up at gunpoint. 2. Had my car stolen. 3. Had my home broken into. Hats off to the guy who shot and killed the robber in EAV; that place has been plagued by crime for years, so maybe one less thug on the street there will improve things. I have at least one friend who confronted a similar situation, a few years ago, in EAV. And I am sure, if I asked around, that I could find more people who have come up against a bum with a gun. I do not carry a gun, but events like this make me wonder if maybe I should get a carry permit. As for the cops: They are spread too thin to do anything more than cruise past every once in a while. And Chief Pennington leaves me underwhelmed. What has he done since coming here from New Orleans? Has anyone ever seen the guy? A pity that voters cannot do to him what they did to former Fulton Sheriff Myron Freeman. I do have a shotgun. They are effective.

By East Lake Ira

January 15, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this

Good job shooting that POS.

I have lived in East Lake for about two years now and have had my home broken into once and my garage twice. I’m sick of it.

Time to buy a gun or two… Perhaps we should begin taking this into our own hands? The police are worthless and while our neighborhood patrol is making an effort, they aren’t having any real impact. Time to go hunting is fast approaching.

By MacArthur

January 15, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this

Responsible citizens didn’t start this war — and that’s what it’s become — but we are now fully engaged in it. My wife recently got her concealed carry permit, and my advice to her was simple — if you are accosted, and you feel threatened, shoot. I already have my permit, and I intend to do the same. I’m sorry it’s come to that, but if that’s what it takes, so be it.

By Jeff

January 15, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this

By Joslin

January 15, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

This is awful. Even though the robber was in the wrong, shooting and death is not the solution. I am saddened by the excessive violence.

So what is the solution? getting murdered over your money in your wallet, and you car?

By pinot

January 15, 2009 10:27 AM | Link to this

The hero of East Atlanta- we need to send him to Obama’s inaguration as an example of the best of our city- better than the mayor- better than city council- a one man citizen defense league- we owe him a greater debt than we can pay!!!

By Cornell Keith

January 15, 2009 10:30 AM | Link to this

DRT Award. (Dead Right There)

By ablebody

January 15, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

I’ve lived here in East Atlanta for just over 10 years. I’ve had a motorcycle stolen, a car stolen twice, had cars broken into 5 or 6 times, caught men on our property late at night peeping, and had one man smash through our glass door while my wife was home alone. She hid in the basement. The man took nothing and left only bloody handprints all over the house. As far as we know, APD never figured out who it was.

In fact, of each of these incidents, the police arrested one tottering old homeless man who I actually caught going through my car on my watch.

I don’t think the police really have it together to protect us anymore. I am buying a handgun and possibly a shotgun this weekend.

I’m not happy to read that the would-be robber last night in EAV (Jan 14) was killed. I don’t wish this gun play on any neighborhood. But it clearly says “We are not sitting ducks.”

By Mark

January 15, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

This type of thing is sad, but necessary. I do feel some compassion for people who are dealt bad cards, and want us to continue trying to take care of people who are disadvantaged, but not at the expense of innocent people.

By Muffin

January 15, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

You don’t have to have a permit to carry a gun. It might make things a little less complicated if you have one in the event you have to use the gun to shoot someone but it is not required. If you want to carry a concealed weapon or walk around your neighborhood with a gun you do need a special license for that. Otherwise, to have a gun in your car or home is perfectly legal without a license. We are thinking about getting a gun. We hear gunfire every night across the street from our neighborhood. Go to the range a couple of times and see how comfortable you are shooting before you get a gun. The first time is a little nerve-wracking but after you get used to the noise it is really fun.

By kirbang

January 15, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this

No one mourns the demise of crud. Unfortunately guns for self defense have mixed results. Users are rarely trained and often fail to secure their weapons. Accidental shootings rise when gun ownership increases. I find no evidence of corresponding decrease to crime.

I am equally fearful of an untrained owner legitimately shooting at the bad-guy and hitting me or my family.

Local security organizations with active communication between the mobile force and population they serve seem to be the most effective response. We continue to complain of lack of police presence and yet decry any proposed tax increase which would fund same.

And by the way Dawg, can your racist banter, you only show your stupidity (not ignorance)

I am so tired of the perpetuation of these stupid southern stereotypes

By Ashley

January 15, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this

I now understand why people attended hangings in the wild west. After being terrorized by “thugs” in our neighborhood, my only response to the shooting was “one bad guy down!” People are stepping up and protecting themselves (with my black neighbors feeling exactly as angry and frustrated as I am; do not turn this into a “white versus black” debate), and it is about time that the thugs terrorizing my friends and neighbors realize that neighbors will fight back. Clearly, cutting public safety dollars and furloughing the officers who are supposed to be protecting us was not the appropriate solution. If our “public servants” (the mayor and council) are going to take away the protection that our tax dollars are supposed to be paying for, then people will start protecting themselves instead.

By TJ

January 15, 2009 10:37 AM | Link to this

A friend of mine told me that there are other solutions than trying to carry a gun yourself and possibly getting into more trouble than imagined. His community contacted a place called Paradigm Security and they had services to patrol their community and provide extra security. I believe it was called Paradigm Security Service.

By CDW

January 15, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

Hate guns, but my husband has already started the process for us to have one, and I can’t even argue with him. We live close to EAV and frequent the Village for dinner and drinks.

My condolences to the law abiding citizen. I can’t imagine that ever taking a life is easy, but I think you did the right thing.

If this were to ever happen to us, I would endorse the same action. When criminals start to fear for their own lives, we’ll see crime go down.

By JR

January 15, 2009 10:47 AM | Link to this

It’s not just East Atlanta, Grant Park, etc. Don’t forget what happened in Horse Shoe Bend in Roswell just last week. These thugs are everywhere and it just keeps getting worse. Low rent housing in Martin’s Landing. Where will it all end, when we’ve all had enough and moved to the far reaches of north & south Georgia?

By about time

January 15, 2009 10:47 AM | Link to this

I live in EAV and had my window kicked in and home burglarized several weeks ago. BEWARE THUGS - EAV RESIDENTS ARE NOW PACKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maybe if a few more of them are killed, this sort of madness will stop.

By Rob

January 15, 2009 10:50 AM | Link to this

I just finished up a 2-day installation of a 4-chanel, closed-circuit security camera system at my property in Grant Park. We got broken into nearly a year and half ago, and I’d been saying ever since then that we’d get a camera system. It took me forever to finally call my security company and have it done, and it’s because of what happened to John at The Standard last week that finally made me pull the trigger.

I don’t have a gun, and I hope I’ll never have to get one. I’ve seen them do some bad things to good people. But stories like this keep hitting closer and closer, and if if comes to it, I’ll protect myself any way I have to.

I love my neighborhood - I live here, I work here and I care about making it a better place. I think it’s sad that it’s come to this, but I’m just glad that the people last night were prepared enough to defend themselves. I just hope I’m that prepared if it happens to me.

By Weekendgirl

January 15, 2009 10:52 AM | Link to this

I’m actually supposed to go out this weekend to purchase a handgun. I want to get trained properly and BE READY when they come. Eventually, they will come. I live in Sylvan Hills and I’m just biding my time. Criminals never sleep and when I shoot, I will shoot to kill!!! RIP bad guy! Your mother may shed a tear but I won’t.

By Charles Bronson

January 15, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

If you decide to rob someone at gunpoint be prepared for a gun pointing back at you.

Tired of hearing about the suspect’s rights, what about the victim’s rights?

Kennesaw mandatory gun law has been proven to work for over 25 yrs.

Four words to the criminals: Go Get A Job.

By kristin

January 15, 2009 11:02 AM | Link to this

I used to work in the Midtown area (next to Mary Macs) and the crime has increased dramatically in the past 2 years. Criminals are not deterred by the police presence or any form of security. I personally have had to review the security video for 4 robberies at that location one of which was an armed robbery of the restaurant employees at Top Flr.

This is NOT about the economy!!!!!! They are not stealing food from the store to feed their families; they are forcibly taking what they want from law abiding citizens.

While I do not condone vigilantly behavior, I will not shed a tear for the would be robber.

By Dekalb Dweller

January 15, 2009 11:02 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the shooter. With policemen being laid off and with reactionary leadership, what are the people to do? Wait for some government official’s (i.e. the Mayor, Police Chiefs and Sheriffs) family members to be victimized in order for action. I am in the process of getting some form of “protection” and if somebody pulls a gun on me or mine, one of us is not going home. I’m prepared for that.

DD

By joe

January 15, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

It is a shame these thugs are not murdered more often. I dare one to break into my house. I would empty my clip in them and then reload it and do it again. People are tired of living in fear. It is time for us to take back these neighborhoods

By kenny c

January 15, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

Let me tell you something I dont care where you live in these times, you are not safe anywhere, really and truly you cant let your guard down I dont care where you live. With the economy the way it is it is going to get even worst. People are not going just sit down and let their families die or live in poverty. Im not saying it is right its just a fact, yes you have those who are bad people naturally but its sad now. No and No I dont feel really safe any where I go now days. Something has got to be done . The more cameras posted on streets the better, and make it known they are there . make them so they cannot be tampered with. just suggestions .Something has got to b e done.

By Capitol View Girl

January 15, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

Any violence of any kind is just sad. It is seriously unfortunate that it has come to this. The comment about if more “white people lived in the neighborhood” made by Dawg2009 is just ignorant. Crime doesn’t have a color.

I also live in the city, Capitol View. We have our share of crime, however, I do feel safe. I have lived in the neighborhood for 5 years and have had one break-in. Unfortunately, I had been out of town for a number of weeks—-I really felt it was bound to happen. However, I have friends who reside in more affluent neighborhoods and they same thing if not worse has been happening in those neighborhoods too.

I think it’s just sad all of the way around. The intended victim having to have the member of killing another human being on his mind for the rest of his life. The would be robber, who deems it necessary to resort to using a gun and robbying people for a living. All of it is just sad.

By Mechanicsville

January 15, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

The AHA (Atlanta Housing Authority) is partially responsible for this crime wave in recent years.

They’ve been destroying the Projects all over town in hopes of giving people a better life.. but are dispersing the crime all over the city. If you’ve got a section 8 house near you, you’ve got a problem. It’s going to take some time (a lot) to rehabilitate, educate and nurture the underprivileged.

By Charles Bronson

January 15, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

I will be replacing Pennington as the new Chief of Police…

I will enact the same mandatory gun law in Kennesaw. A proven success for over 25 years…

“despite dire predictions of “Wild West” showdowns and increased violence and accidents, not a single resident has been involved in a fatal shooting – as a victim, attacker or defender.”

By Jeff

January 15, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

“This is awful. Even though the robber was in the wrong, shooting and death is not the solution. I am saddened by the excessive violence.”

What is the solution then? Innocent lives being taken, property being stolen? I would like to hear how those who think “you can’t solve crime by defending yourself with a gun”, would solve these problems.

By Richard

January 15, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

1/15/2009

Recent vandalism in our neighborhood 35 miles east of Atlanta has risen with 5 incidences since 12/20/2008 with the worst 1/3/2009 when vandals threw a 125 pound bench through our front bedroom clerestory window causing $500.00 in damages. The 3 youths ( 2 fifth graders and a 7th grader) will be charged and prosecuted to fullest extents of law. They also were involved in several thousand in damages to electrical system at Nearby Livingston Willow Elementary ..

People are now armed and will not hesitate to protect their property.

By BRETT SHEPHER

January 15, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

I live in the Peachtree Corners section of Norcross and I feel very safe. The only time I dont feel safe is when I hang my USC TROJANS FLAG OUTSIDE ON GAMEDAY :) I just want to commend the man that put that would be robber to sleep. Give him an award or something. I get tired of thugs harming innocent people who are out trying to enjoy themselves or robbing folks of posessions that THEY worked for.
Break in my house, harm my family and I too will put you to sleep.

By Edward Gilgor

January 15, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

I think the real question should be: How can Mayor Franklin be permitted to REDUCE the number of police officers from the 1640 sworn officers to 1476, and then say with a straight face that she wants to hire 200 more officers? The Mayor spent more money than was in her budget last cycle and as a result, this is one of the cuts she has made. I think that if you don’t have the ability to keep your citizens safe, then the rest of the government doesn’t really matter. Bold: Cutting police, under any circumstances, is unacceptable.

By rayray

January 15, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

I do feel safe. We do not have a lot of random “dude walk” throughs. That being said, my 12 gauge, glock and nitehawk, all seem to make me feel a bit better. The police come AFTER the incident. I just hope that should there be an incident, I am the one standing and answering the questions.

By CJ

January 15, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

This makes me feel sick. For the first time in my 8 years in Atlanta I don’t feel safe. It’s a sinking feeling.

By Bill

January 15, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Yes, I feel very safe.. Not too many Obama supporters in Dunwoody.

By gordon5757

January 15, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this

BTW, you do not need a permit if you are keeping the gun in your home or in your car. Only on your person do you need a permit. Be sure to learn how to use it. Accidents can happen. I had a shot gun pointed at me when I was doing something stupid at 16. I was trespassing. I will never forget the sound of the cocking of that gun. My hands went up and I was terrified. My first self defense move, should someone enter our home is to c** that shotgun. If that does not work, well……

By Gram

January 15, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this

I have lived in Stone Mountain since 1968. It has gone to the dogs (thugs) literally. We have 4 guns in the house, all positioned strategically for easy access…so come on, dummies. We’re ready for you!

By sd

January 15, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

I think its a shame what happened. I hope that it will change the minds of other criminals. But, I am sorry for the shooter and the criminal he had to shoot. I also grieve for the young man’s family.

We need to stop these criminals before they become criminals.

Everyone who can, and almost everyone can, should take one kid and be a mentor to him when he is still young enough to make a difference. Teach him to stick aroudn for his kids and not be like his father. Break the cycle just once and it stays broken.

Eventually, these kids are too twisted and broken to help. usually when they are 16, its too late.

When a small tree begins to bend, you can tie it to a straight post and straighten the tree, but if the tree is allowed to stay bent for years and you try to striaghten it, it breaks.

By Gary

January 15, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this

I’m about to go get my concealed weapons permit this week. Incidentally for those of you that may not be aware. You can by law carry your handgun in your vehicle withhout a concealed permit as long as it’s in sight and visible. Georgia state law says that your peronsl vehicle is considered an extension of your home and you have a right to defend yourself when you’re in it.

I’m not too worried in our home, we have 3 modes of defense. We had a security system put in last year. I know it can’t stop them but it can let us know that they’re here during the night. I also installed 1 inch deadbolts and 4 inch screw security kick plates on all of the exterior doors. So they will have a hell of a time kicking the door in. Third and my personal favorites a nice 12 gauge pump mossy fully loaded under the bed upstairs and a 9MM downstairs. God pity the thug that breaks into my home and threatens to harm my family because this will be the scene of the last crime they ever committ. It would be us or them and it sure as hell won’t be us! They leave this house and it will be a trip to the Morgue not jail.

People need to fight back and send a message to these losers that we’ve had enough!

By sd

January 15, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

I fell badly for the robber’s family. We, as a community, need to help these kids when they are young enough to help them. There is a kid near you that you could spend time with and help so that he doesn’t wind up hurting himself, others, or going to jail. Do your part.

As for feeling safe? I felt a lot safer before my dog died. I am about to put a picket fence all the way around my house and get a new dog. German shepard this time. Sending him to obedience school to learn to guard.

By minidreamin

January 15, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this

I wonder if the Atlanta Mayor is reading some of these comments. It might do her some good to listen to her voters.

By intowner

January 15, 2009 12:04 PM | Link to this

I’ll tell you what Chief Pennington has done. Five years ago when some of us with foresight were in Five Points protesting Bush’s upcoming Iraq War, Pennington was out directing fire trucks to turn on their sirens and drive back and forth through the intersection we were threatening to close down. (Yes, I know he is the police chief, but that was what he was doing.)

By JM in Atlanta

January 15, 2009 12:25 PM | Link to this

There is no question that the victim acted appropriately. What’s sad is that criminals now have no regard for human life so I don’t know if it will be a deterrent We live in what is now considered fashionable Buckhead. Years ago we called it Northwest Atlanta. We have a couple of police precincts in the area but it does not stop criminals. We’ve been broken into, had cars broken into, neighbors had kids’ bicylces stolen and all this during the day. One friend living nearby woke up the next morning to find a pitchfork wedged in her car door where theives had tried to get in. We also heard from someone there was a gang driving around in a van and letting a bunch of guys out on the street to walk up to people’s homes and find what they could steal. Then they’d call the van driver who would then come pick them up at the bottom of the driveway. And this was all before the recent downturn in the economy. Is being a criminal really easier than working for a living? I agree with everyone that’s said more thugs have come from New Orleans, as well.

By Sister of intended victim

January 15, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this

Dear Joslin, I am so upset by your ignorance and pacifism that it sickens me. Surely you are the only “enlightened” one out there who truly understands peace and how to resolve being held at gun point with a friendly handshake or a hug. I am the sister of the intended victim. He is my little brother. These two (my brother and his girlfriend) were out taking swing dance lessons when this occurred. Dance lessons. He was not smoking crack or picking up chicks. They were a happy couple on a date. The did not have this coming in any way. What the news article didn’t mention is that my brother tried unsuccessfully to get away “peacefully” with no altercation at all. The assailant would not have it. My brother turned him down for money, and the guy then pulled a gun and shoved it against the glass… inches from my brothers head. At that point, my brother’s life not to mention his girlfriend’s was in imminent danger, and he could have justifiable shot the assailant. He did not, he turned to his girlfriend and said,”Put it in gear and get and get us out of here!” She was so upset and shaking that she couldn’t get the truck into gear. The man would not back off, he was making demands so the only thing that was left to do was face him. My brother opened the door into him so that it knocked him back into another truck and got out quickly. The assailant raised his gun again at my brother no more than 6 feet away (almost close enough for your pacifist handshake) so my brother fired. Yes, six times in the heat of terror. Sorry that doesn’t meet with your approval, or your misguided attempts at being the blog maverick and being “antiviolence” when someone’s life was at stake through no fault of their own. I forgive you though because ignorance is bliss. As far as I’m concerned he’s a hero and saved two lives last night. Here me again, he’s a hero. He had a concealed weapons permit. He was not a renegade or some hack. He is a devout Christian and considers life the most precious gift that God could offer. By the way, you weren’t startled awake by a phone call and told that you almost lost a brother. And that thirty seconds before I knew he was okay and I heard the whole story was an absolute horror. A leg numbing, stomach roiling horror! I didn’t even realize I was screaming and crying. Imagine that. More than anything, and you clearly won’t understand this…it’s beyond your “black and white” comprehensive abilities, I am so very grateful that he was knowledgable and prepared and had taken the time to learn about gun safety and the law. It goes without saying that he is incredibly brave…I don’t think I would have been able to keep my head on straight under that kind of threat. There were a thousand little things that could have turned this situation into a horror for me and my family, had be not reacted the way he did. It could have gone so tragically, if he had not taken the steps he did. I am so glad he got it right. I would be without him and his girlfriend today had he not been so brave.

By Crime Victim

January 15, 2009 12:55 PM | Link to this

I don’t feel truly safe anywhere in the Metro area. I live in DeKalb and someone broke into my car, while it was parked in my garage and me and my family were inside our home sleeping. The thief may have actually tried to enter our home, if our dog had not been barking. After our burglary, we bought a gun. I hope we never have to use it, but we have it.

This isn’t just and East Atlanta Village or Grant Park or City of Atlanta issue. There are criminally-inclined young people out there, who have nothing going for them, and are just looking for victims. Be observant, protect yourself and lessen the chance that you’ll be a victim.

By Sandradee

January 15, 2009 1:29 PM | Link to this

Intowner - thanks for enlightening me to the fact that the chief thwarted your pre-war protest. I didn’t used to like him much, but now he’s my new hero!

By BRETT SHEPHERD

January 15, 2009 3:00 PM | Link to this

HEY SISTER OF THE VICTIM

Pay no attention to Joslin. I commend your brother. I know he and his girlfriend are not looking for a pat on the back because I am sure they weren’t looking for this situation to mess up what was a beautiful night.
Tell him to stay strong and know that he did nothing wrong. He and his girlfriend as well as your family along with hers, are in my thoughts and prayers.

BRETT SHEPHERD PEACHTREE CORNERS-NORCROSS

By So Sweet

January 15, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this

What a sweet sister. I would not call him an ‘intended victim,’ though — with what he had to go through, being a hero — all the strength and terror it took to be a true hero, he’s a victim in every sense of the word. Many neighbors of many intown neighborhoods thank him. Sorry it had to be him — but thank him, we do.