I would like to say I agree with your article today. The only way to combat severe crime is to have severe punishments. What is wrong with capital punishment? Don’t like it. Then don’t do the crime. Our court system is in a mess. All the rights seem to be with the criminal. Most sentences seem to be a slap on the wrist. That does nothing to deter further crime. There is too much political correctness nowadays. The special interest groups seem to be getting all the attention. It seems that the majority of Canadians have lost their right to free speech and a right to be considered before all other countries and illegal immigrants. Charity begins at home.
-- a reader
Having spent 25 years in what was the Manitoba Penitentiary, as a teacher, I think I qualify to express an opinion on your article in the Winnipeg Sun of Sept. 21/’19.
Yes, doc, there was a time when punishment for crime was real and criminals were less than happy to return to jail. That’s when the cat of nine tails was still in use and correctional officers controlled the convicts as opposed to inmates controlling the correctional system.
It is common knowledge that punishment deters crime, but our experts and professionals can’t or won’t see this. Ignorance and political correctness in our system is overwhelming.
Again, I totally agree with your enlightening letter. Thank you, sir.
-- a reader
You are bang on. I have been saying this for years. I grew up when reform schools existed for young offenders. When we heard what was endured in these institutions, it scared us to the point we did not want any part of it. I will posting your article to my Facebook page. I want everyone to know my stance. Thank you again.
-- a reader
I have thought about this issue at length. Here is what I have come up with.
First both governments have to outline what guns are used for hunting, those can be bought by the public after a complete scrutiny of their competence. The remainder of guns manufactured may only be sold to the Military. Any person selling a Military type gun or hand gun will receive 25 years in prison No Reduction in time is allowable.
Persons presently owning a military gun or hand gun may keep it subject to the following limitations: it will be kept inside the persons residence. If it is seen outside the residence (even on their own property) the owner and or carrier are undeniably subject to a $10,000 fine NO Reduction, it is automatic. If the person is caught in the foregoing situation a second time they are subject to a $25,000 and 10 years in prison No Reduction in time or fine. This will apply to anyone carrying the gun and if they are not the owner, as well the owner will suffer the same penalty. All military guns and or hand guns will be kept in the home in a locked gun vault.There will be one exception to this rule: The gun may kept at the owner’s gun club where it will stay, not being allowed to be outside the clubs premises. The above rules will apply if it is taken off the clubs premises The initial transfer to the club will be done by a police officer, or an officer with by the owner.
Anyone found selling illegal guns to any individual (be it a shop owner or private individual) will immediately lose their privilege of selling guns every again and will serve a mandatory prison term of 20 years and $10,000 fine No Reduction in time or financial obligation. This same penalty will apply for anyone selling any gun without the proper scrutiny of the purchasers competence. The government of both countries should provide a form, that without doubt qualifies a person as competent or not competent and the seller be allowed all the time needed to gather and access the results of the application. Anyone providing false information to the seller will lose any privilege of any gun ownership in the future and be subject to a $10,000 fine. Also all guns presently owned by the untruthful purchaser will be confiscated by the law and destroyed. Any seller of guns not reporting an untruthful purchaser to the police will forfeit their right to sell guns or ammunition for 5 years and a $10,000 fine will apply.
Anyone using any gun in an illegal act wounding someone will suffer a 30 year prison term No Reduction in time. Anyone using a gun in an illegal act and a person dies, will suffer a prison term for the remainder of their life or death in areas where that is permissible.
These are my thoughts and hopefully the penalties are sufficiently high enough to stop at least a good portion of the gun stupidity. If not double or triple all of the penalties. As I see this no one can complain that you are taking away their right to bear arms just the right to take your arms out to the street and or sell no illegal guns. The gun manufacturers may not like this but who cares. Now all that is need is a government that has the balls to enact all of these rules.
-- a reader
Dear Dr. Gifford-Jones,
Thank you for your excellent, informative, and life changing information that you write to us on a weekly basis. I look forward to reading your wisdom ad insights each week. In fact, in my newspaper, your article is the first thing I read. My family appreciates your greatly. We have read some of your excellent books and put your research and advice into action in our own lives. Looking forward to reading your latest that you wrote with your daughter!
In regards to your latest article on gun control, I wish you were running for office in our upcoming election. You would make a fine Prime Minister of Canada! Everything that you said and quoted was right on. I couldn’t have said it better. Please continue to use your voice to stand up for whats right and make good changes to our country. You don’t know how many articles of yours I’ve shared with others over the years. Many of them have been eye opening to me as well as those I shared them with. The ones I love the most are usually health related, but there won’t be any health tips to give anyone if guns are killing innocent people in mass numbers. God help us!
-- a reader
I agree with you and Aristotle et al, that our Western politicians are WAY too soft on criminals. The criminals know they can get away with almost anything.
The laws need to be MUCH stricter, but how to get the politicians on side, I have no idea.
If the many mass shootings in the U.S. have made no difference to their thinking, things will never change.
And the shootings are getting bad here in Canada as well.
Sounds like Singapore has done a good job with laws against both guns and illegal drugs.
Thanks for letting me express my thoughts on this.
-- a reader
I strongly agree. Mass shootings are getting out of hand.
No one should own a gun. If something isn’t done soon; it is only going to get worse.
-- a reader
I read your September 24th article and agree fully with you. It’s a subject that is very important to me and it saddens me (and makes me embarrassed to be a Canadian at times) to see the social deterioration in our lives, largely stemming from the radically escalating drug epidemic of increasingly toxic narcotics. This has lead in a short time to escalating drugs and gangs, firearms violence, etc.
We have had SWAT in our backyard late at night pursuing drug dealers, a person shot in the head and killed 1/2 mile from our home and had more drug related crimes happen to those we know than ever before. Years ago, the drugs of choice were marijuana and cocaine but this has escalated (partly to blame is medically prescribed oxy I’m lead to believe although I’m not sure how big a factor this really is) to fentanyl, carfentanyl, heroin and crystal meth. As an Alaska State Trooper told me, the earlier narcotics were “cleaner” ones but these recent ones are so much worse, They take over the users lives, control them, turn them from decent members of society almost into animals. I’m lead to believe these narcotics are so addicting that an addict can be created almost from first use, and once addicted, the focus of the addicts life becomes to keep getting money to buy more of these terrible drugs. When cash becomes an issue they resort to crime to get the money for the drugs. And the ever increasing demand for these hard narcotics is creating a market for more gangs and drug dealers and the related supply chain. It is very lucrative for them, and to protect their “turf” or cash cow, they often resort to violence with firearms, knives, etc. with very little regard for human lives.
There are 2 cogs in the drug dealing wheel, the drug dealers and the drug addicts. With the increasing numbers of both, they are destroying family makeup as we know it. And I agree 100% that the courts, police and authorities do not treat the drug dealers and drug addicts very firmly, they get a slap on the wrist and are turned loose to repeat all over again. This can also lead to other serious issues such as human trafficking which I understand is much more widespread than any of us would like to believe.
Ten years ago, I felt safe in my home (rural just outside an Ontario city of 100,000 people) but no longer. My brother had rival drug gangs at his doorstep with death threats in the middle of the night. We had SWAT in our backyard late at night and apprehended a drug dealer and had him in cuffs 30′ from our doorstep. I’ve had run ins with Hells Angels wanting to do drug deals on land I own (that is pretty scary I must admit).
I recently spent 3 months fishing in the backwoods on Kodiak Island, Alaska. I lived (tented out self guided) with the Kodiak bears and they were around me and our tent campsite a lot). We had no problems with the bears – they are intelligent and were not a danger. Our danger was from the drug addicts who have changed everything on Kodiak over the last 10 years. People used to leave their doors unlocked and never feared. Now they lock their doors, home invasions are common and they are armed and ready to kill intruders. The State Troopers (I talked openly to many of them to understand our risk level) advised that I may be held up by drug addicts desperate for cash to buy drugs, my vehicles may be broken into and everything of value stolen to sell for drug money, etc. They asked if I would be armed and I replied Yes, after all this is Alaska and I’m going to the Alaskan wilderness off the beaten path. Then they asked if I was willing to use my weapon if need be in self defense and I replied that, while this would be an awful unfortunate situation to be in, if my life and safety depended on it, I would be prepared to defend my self even if this meant shooting someone intending me harm. Their response is to do what you have to do. If your life or safety is in danger, you are entitled to defend yourself, without negative consequences to yourself. They spoke of the drug addicts as “vermin” preying on our very society.
Before I left home for Alaska, I bought my wife a 12 gauge marine flare pistol and she put it in her bedside night table in case of a home invasion while I was away and she was home along. It’s pretty sad when our society comes to this and it’s only getting worse.
Earlier this summer, we camped along the Alcan Highway near Liard Hot Springs, BC at a highway pull out. That’s very close to where the 2 Vancouver Island young men murdered the 2 young people this summer (one from Australia and the other from Carolina (USA). Tied them up and shot them in the head. On our way home we took the Cassiar Highway (Highway of Tears) and camped at a highway pull out near Dease Lake, BC. That’s near the spot the same 2 murderers killed the Vancouver professor who was camped at a pull out on that highway. I learned about the details of these murders after getting home.
On an earlier road trip to Alaska, camped at a small roadside campground with no other campers, a person stopped in to talk and the visit escalated to him (very large tough looking chap) deciding he was going to relieve us of our money. The body language and script was just so crystal clear. I was able to deflect the bad outcome by saying I needed to get the BBQ sauce for our dinner from our camper and came back out with my 12 gauge marine flare pistol in my hand. It saved us being robbed or perhaps killed, not good in any event. It was very similar to the Vader fella (hopeless druggie) who killed the couple on vacation in the prairies around the same time. Vader was found flush with cash, driving their SUV, their big motorhome was found burned up a bush road and their bodies have never been found.
Drugs lead to desperate people, Desperate people do desperate things. Innocent people are often on the wrong end of the equation. And the courts don’t do much about it.
I believe 100% in capital punishment. People like Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka should never have the luxury of living after the atrocities they have committed. The families of the victims never have a nice life after such horrors. The perpetrators deserve to pay the ultimate price for their crimes.
Tough on drugs and gangs. Singapore earlier and more recently the Philippines and Rio de Janiero getting really tough on drugs. Singapore I understand is one of the safest countries in the world. Nice, I tip my hat to them for getting serious about getting to the core of the “rot” and working to eliminate it.
Our government is not going to accomplish one positive thing with tougher gun controls other than to hassle the law abiding citizens who use guns for sporting and recreational purposes and livestock protection (and, although it’s not politically correct and just plain not smart to admit) for self defense purposes should the need arise. The drug dealers and gangs aren’t going to obey the new laws any more than they do our existing laws which they are already breaking and they just don’t care. The consequences to them just aren’t stiff enough and the profit incentive just too great. It would take capital punishment to send the message home. I’m in favor, our politicians and our justice system just are not. I really can’t understand how they are so soft on the “bad guys”. It just isn’t logical to me at all.
Your article near the bottom starting with “capital punishment is not available” ….. and ending with…”society and do little about it” is particularly well written. I couldn’t agree more.
I’m 69 years old, have never smoked or taken a narcotic in my life and don’t drink alcohol. I pay my taxes without complaint. We have a wonderful country – one of the best in the world. We just want to be happy. We want to feel safe in our homes. That is one of the most fundamental goals as I see it. I used to feel safe. I hate to admit but I no longer do. My friends or their neighbors have had home invasions while at home. SWAT in our backyard. My brother with 2 rival drug gangs at his house in the middle of the night (lead there by one drug dealer taking his rival drug dealer gang kidnappers to the wrong house so they wouldn’t kill the girls at his house along with him). These things are very hard to forget. So many families now have some family member or close friend or friend of a friend who has become involved with heavy drugs that we are all impacted by it.
I spent several summers on Kodiak Island, Alaska since I retired in 2003 (2003, 2007, 2008,2011, 2019 and 2 weeks in 2016). My truck, trailer and camper were safe left unattended while we commuted by ATV into a favorite salmon stream up until and including 2011. Nothing was touched, nothing was bothered. It was great. By 2016 I was advised that the heroin and meth epidemic had changed things and nothing was safe anywhere and one was not really safe themself either. I met with State Troopers and they confirmed that things had really gone down hill with the drug epidemic. Despite this, I planned and just completed my 2019 trip, but the # of precautions and changes we had to make re our truck, camper and trailer were awful. We could not leave anything unattended any longer. This meant leaning on friends to store our property, drive us back and forth, etc. I have video of many incidents of vehicles being burned to nothing. We were warned by troopers that my truck would be stripped and burned if I left it where I had left it in all prior years (while camping out at my salmon stream 26 kilometers away). They say it all stems down to the drug epidemic that has taken hold of the area, all Alaska really but it’s really getting to be like that everywhere including right where I live and used to feel safe.
I’m surprised by the attitude in Alaska. My friends (retired Coast Guard or Military) and the State Troopers have no tolerance for such drug crimes and their view is to eliminate the problem if it arises. Self defense is a good defense. I don’t feel the same here. If I hurt or killed a person breaking into our home (home invasion), I feel our police and justice system would likely arrrest me and throw the book at me for protecting my family in my own home. There is something terribly wrong with such a system.
Back to the point. Bad people are bad people as you infer and they often do really bad things. When they do it the first time, it’s on them. But when they are turned loose to repeat and do it again, it’s on our system. Our system is so badly broken, it’s hard to imagine ever getting the pendulum going in the right direction.
We need capital punishment. Drug dealers who use firearms and kill innocent members of society need to pay the ultimate price. So do human traffickers and other perpetrators of equally heinous crimes.Prison doesn’t work and costs too much and there isn’t enough prison space or budget to accommodate the growing epidemic. There isn’t very strong deterrent or we would be winning the war on drugs, guns and gangs. Instead, it’s just getting worse. Who would miss Paul Bernardo? Who would miss El Chappo Guzman? Better to put them in the rear view mirror.
This is the second time I have responded to your articles. I only do so when the topic is one that is really important to me. Our feeling of safety in our homes and in our society. Thanks for your articles.
-- BWR from Thunder Bay
I was just telling my spouse yesterday that capital punishment should be reinstated in Canada and you happened to put an article in our local paper. Our city Thunder Bay has become the hub of violent gangs and drug dealers. They have destroyed it.
-- a reader in Thunder Bay
I believe you are right Doc, our crime rates are sickening. Here in Alberta a man who was wounded while trying to rob a rural property is now suing the property owner for pain and suffering. He was hit in the arm by shrapnel from a warning shot on the road. The law is an ass to even allow this frivolity. The RCMP arrested the property owner, Eddie Maurice, for firing warning shots when the intruders kept coming at him, in the dark, on his farm as he was alone with his toddler. And now suing him? He and his wife have already been through Hell fighting the charges that the RCMP laid against him for using a firearm. We and many other people donated to his legal fees. The charges were eventually dropped, but it was expensive. Now looks like we all will have to do it again. Makes me mad I can tell you.
You are brave to come out and say these things, and about medical matters too. I admire you and hope you keep being politically incorrect, as I am.
-- a reader in Alberta
Well said, sir! I am in total agreement but if I may, I’d like to add a variation. If a mass murderer, or a 1st degree murderer who is without one iota of a doubt 100% guilty , why not have them contribute to mankind via medicine? How? Well, instead of using lab mice to further the development of medicine, use the convicts instead. If a drug becomes approved, then we can at least say that the murderers who have taken innocent lives will have made some contribution in furthering medicine and eradicating serious illnesses.
-- a reader
I read your piece on how to deal with gun violence and like you am in my later years.(89). From my study of history I believe China has similar laws and is relatively free of gun massacres. Canada is not as bad as it is in the United States but The big cities seem to have a lot of hand gun shooting and it is not dealt with nationally effectually. I think politicians are afraid of the political consequence so they keep looking for an easy way out but there is no easy way.
-- a reader
I totally agree with you and the Singapore Government that being tough on crime is the only way to deal with these criminals who have no regard for anyone. The politicians should take a page from their book.
Canada was a safe place but now it is getting to be like a war zone and decent people do not feel safe anymore. I now avoid any event with large crowds for fear of getting shot.
The Politicians are afraid of everyone and everything. They are afraid of offending instead of law and order. Even the police hands are tied. No more carding and they are no longer allowed to be in the schools amongst other things because they do not want to offend anyone.
Thank you for being so involved and voicing your opinion with regards to the gun violence in our once peaceful and beautiful country Canada.
-- a reader
You are 100% correct if only we had a country willing to face the truth! and it is a health issue!!
-- a reader
I totally agree with your article on gun violence. Banning hand guns or semi automatic rifles will not do a dam thing when it comes to criminals. All levels of government need to come together and get tough with our Justice system and come up with tougher laws that have some balls and stop letting these gun toting criminals out on bail. If you are in possession of an illegal firearm and don’t have a licence to carry a firearm then there is only one conclusion in my book, your going to do something bad with that firearm and belong in jail for a long time. With the rash of gun violence over the last few years I am so surprised that this is not the number one priority in the Federal Election. I am making it mine when I receive a knock at the door from my candidates.
Great Article
-- a reader
The only way the insane gun violence will ( perhaps… ) end or slow down is when a ranking government official has a family member die from a gun shot . Until then , and obviously we do not want that to happen , the troubles associated with gun violence will continue to happen . Happened to see a bumper sticker in Florida last year that read : IF I KNOW HOW MANY GUNS I HAVE….. THEN…. I DO NOT HAVE ENOUGH . That perhaps says it all for too many folks living in America today where some figures show some 400 million guns are in American homes . Stood beside a “ customer ‘ at a flea market in Texas , and watched as he bought a “ weapon of war “ gun for $1,000 . No questions asked at all . He simply pushed a wad of bills across a table , and a rifle was pushed towards him on the table . No questions at all . One would say “ A dog chasing it’s tali “ But…. THEY HAVE THE RIGHT. ! ! ! One’s attitude changes when a gun is put in your face . BEEN TO THAT RODEO in Lake City , Florida last year at a Flying J gas station . Once the weapon was shown, I was asked to “ask nicely “ . We were waiting to use a pump for fuel , and the “ gun guy “ was taking forever to fuel up . I asked just how long it would be for him to fuel up and be on his way . And , bingo , out came the gun . STAND YOUR GROUND is alive and well in Florida . We no longer visit Florida. Excellent article . Only time will tell just how this strange attitude will be around . Cheers. Be safe and thanks indeed for the article .
-- a reader in Windsor
I must agree with your position on gun control. Here in Canada, at least we have no 2nd amendment rights to stand in the way of better gun control. It seems that political inertia can be almost as hard to overcome, so, perhaps Singapore is on the right path.
Please keep up the good work that you do.
-- a reader in Nova Scotia
I read your column with interest, on this topic. As a person who spoke to many people, living all over the world, I agree that the US must take action quickly.
Since most mass casualties occur with rapid fire, assault weapons, I feel this must be our top concern to end this mass killing.
No one needs a rapid fire weapon for hunting. Its sole purpose was for use in war. Why cant we even change, the accessibility of this type of gun? How about a ban on magazine rounds? Why not equip only soldiers with this rifle?
And why dont we agree – no publicity, for mass shooters. Only victim names to be released and a possible motive.
I feel the media glorifies it to an extent.
If we really are concerned, this is a step in the right direction. Let’s start somewhere.
-- a reader in Rhode Island
Thank you, thank you for your article on mass shootings and using and/or selling drugs. For years I believe the same as you do.
You commit a crime such as above you pay dearly for it. Every one in society pays big time for their horrible actions.
These do gooders are ruining our once great Canadian society. I agree start cutting one finger at a time off and have people who may be prone to commit crime watch. It would only take a few to punish in this way to get the message across. I am appalled at the little punishment for example that drug pushers get for ruining lives. All in the name of greed and money!!
But what can the average person do. Members of parliament don’t care and neither does the Weak legal system. What can we do to change things,???
Please let me know as there are so very many people that would love to change our once great Canadian society?
-- a reader
Bring back Capital Punishment for murder,, all murders, whether a gun is used or not..
No difference between 1st and 2nd degree or manslaughter, capital punishment if a person is killed.
Not for accidental or vehicular manslaughter.
-- a reader in Abbotsville
Yes, Aristotle and Lee Kwan Yew are right on gun laws. We have a ton of laws for us law abiding citizens and they don’t seem to apply to criminals or those who use them to hurt people. Guns don’t kill, people do!
-- a reader
I agree with you. Stricter gun laws, like in Singapore, should be enforced here in Canada. I also believe if cannabis hadn’t been legalized there would be a lot less violence. Freeing up hospitals for REAL sickness instead of overdoses and victims being shot. That’s my thoughts.
-- a reader
Dr Gifford-Jones:
Regarding your column of Sept 25/19, Tillsonburg News, I have watched, with much concern, the steadily-growing violence against each other in this country and in the States and agree that Capital Punishment should be brought back. There is no deterrent to violent crimes at this time.
I’ve just read Miracles and Massacres, by Glenn Beck, which is a correction of the American history once believed to be true. (He gives facts, figures and most importantly, Sources to back up his information.) It begins in 1781 and goes through the years to the My Lai Massacre and on to the 9/11 terrorist attack – clarifying what actually happened, not what the US Government issued for public consumption. As stated, this is American history, but it mostly concerns the ability of a single person to make changes, which can make life better and safer for all.
In the Foreword, he states: “...these stories remind people why we should rely on ourselves, our neighbors and our God, but never on our government.” And, in the conclusion, he states: “…..is a perfect example of how an ordinary person can make an extraordinary difference, but he’s not the only one. Each of us has the opportunity to prove that every single day.”
Punishment meted out today is no more than a slap on the wrist and they are out on the street in no time, with no respect for the law, nor the police.
I have retired to my home town, which is policed by the OPP. Some years ago, the older teen next door had a gun and the SWAT team was called in. I was awakened in early morning, told to get dressed and get out, the subdivision was closed and was unable to get back to my home until after 6:30PM. He went to ‘Juvie’ as he bragged and was home again in no time, wearing an ankle bracelet, which he tried to burn off in full view of the neighbours.
Since then, he deals drugs, in daylight, right in his parents’ driveway and I, personally, saw him sell drugs to a young boy of no more than 12 years. The OPP have also been notified by neighbours who have a sight-line to his parents’ home and will do nothing about this. We are told he is being put on ‘observation’.
He has done property damage at my home for years, (always in the night – he’s on Disability, no need to work), and I have been told by the OPP, “Get a clear video of him doing damage and we’ll prosecute.” (Apparently, they don’t believe in investigation themselves.) I was also told, “If someone is doing damage to your property, stay safe indoors and let them do whatever they want to do.” I told the OPP that THAT would never happen, as I take good care of my property and would never sit in the house and watch damage being done!” Even at 84, I will do what is necessary to protect my property!
He has often shot air pistol pellets through the adjoining hedge and across my back path, which is only 3 ft wide and I have often found pellets in the path the next morning. When notified, the OPP officer said that he didn’t suppose I’d kept any. When I told him I had and would he like to see them, he said, “No.” How frustrating is that!?!!
A year ago, one Sunday night, a gunshot was heard from their backyard and, though the neighbours heard it and knew where it came from, no one called the OPP. The fact that not one neighbour had the confidence in the OPP to notify them, says more about the OPP than about the neighbours.
The above is my experience with the ‘Law’ and I certainly agree that the politicians are ‘weak-kneed’ regarding Capital Punishment. Their main concern is to keep their seat in government and any subject that is controversial is ignored. Many people feel as I do and we are looking for a leader to support. If there is anything I can do to support your cause, please let me know.
The young people of today have no knowledge of how it ‘used to be’, when you could leave your doors unlocked, help a neighbour out in hard times, when you could TRUST each other. They are unaware of the slow slide, apparently to the bottom, if nothing is done to stop it.
-- a reader
I agree 100% that Canadian laws needs to be stricter and have “a bite.” —– i.e the death penalty
In my mind this apples to not only gun offences but also drug traffickers.
And, although the death penalty might be a little severe for things like physical abuse (of humans & animals), graffiti, trespassing & vandalism, I see nothing wrong with public canings or lashes.
Just to clarify my aforementioned statements —- I do NOT support confiscation of guns from law-abiding citizens. People need to remain armed in order to defend themselves & their families from criminals / thugs. We also have thousands of recreational hunters / sportsmen out there and their rights need to be protected. We have to punish the criminals not the law-abiding populace.
-- a reader
You Sir, Aristotle, and Yew are absolutely correct. It is a risk / reward issue. Canada’s justice system does nothing to correct behaviour or protect the citizenry.It is a big machine that rewards people who paid their dues and went to law school.
Politicians who talk tough on crime and don’t produce results are simply pandering to voters. Politicians who talk tough on gun control are simply putting out the illusion they are doing something to make voters safer when actuality all they are doing is bullying law abiding people who are not the problem in the first place.
While Singapore may be extreme the point is meaningful punishment deters and rehabilitates. Maybe capital punishment does not deter in all cases (there is such a thing as suicide by cop) but if it saves just one life isn’t it worth it?
Finally, a disarmed citizen is a vulnerable citizen to violent crime and a disarmed society is a vulnerable society to government corruption. Government officials are protected by people armed with guns yet they won’t afford you the same rights. I shutter when I hear how it took 5 minutes for the police to arrive to a mass shooting in progress, (a very good response time) let alone engage the criminal. That’s an eternity when you are bleeding profusely, and many people have been killed in disarmed societies by evil governments in history.
Thanks for your tough articles; I can only imagine the abuse you are going to take for your honesty. I doubt many who agree will take the time to write.
-- a reader
I agree with your article. Tough punishment for violent crimes and death penalty when warranted.
-- a reader
Totally agree with your views. Thanks for being you.
-- a reader
i agree one hundred percent with you Dr. Gifford-Jones. We should bring back capital punishment for gun and drug violations.
-- a reader
Anyone caught carrying a gun illegally should go to jail for 1 year first offense. 2nd offense 5 years and 3rd offense 20 years. No bail. No appeal. My opinion as a gun owner, concealed carry card holder and NRA lifetime member.
-- a reader
I agree 100% with your comments on gun control. If these evil thugs KNEW that 10 years will be added onto any sentence they receive for a crime, they’d definitely think twice about carrying guns. Too bad our gutless politicians can’t see that……
-- a reader
I don’t agree on capital punishment but do on the possession of guns. If any one is found with a hand gun, and does not have a permit for it, it should be an automatic jail term of 15 or more years.
I some times think we need a special place for those who are caught with a gun. They should be sent to a secure location where only those with the same sentence are sent, then given back there gun, for “protection”. Leave enough food and supplies for one person. I suppose this would be a kind of capital punishment, would it not.
-- a reader
In the U.S., it is illegal to spend any public funds investigating guns as a public health issue. That’s right — illegal. The Republicans legislated it so some years ago.
-- a reader
I think that you, Aristotle and Lee Kwan Yew are right on. I have been saying this for decades, and as you’ve experienced, some people agree with me and the others call me crazy (among other things).
I can tell you that the death penalty sure would give me something to think about if I were so inclined to commit a crime.
But I’m preaching to the choir here. Nonetheless, we need to do something and tougher gun controls have rarely made a difference. I think it’s because criminals don’t take firearm training, get a license, or buy their guns from registered gun dealers. Such novel thinking, eh?
-- a reader
Our issues are not related to lack of the death penalty but rather liberal judges who do not sentence those involved in gun related crimes. I have a friend who transfers youth inmates to court. They often have as many as 15 gun related charges and are let go or put on probation as the judge argues they have reformed. They are back in court again quickly with the same result. No deterrent so reason to change behaviours. The death penalty is not the answer, at least until all the jails are full, then we may be required to cull the herd.
-- a reader
I just would like to say thank you. Finally someone talks about the impact of gun violence on one’s health. Mental health included. I thought it was a great article. I even posted it to Facebook.
Now, more people should address the issue of parenting as well.These ‘kids’ must be taught that emulating a gangster rapper is the farthest thing from being ‘cool’. Turning off the Tv might be a good start.
-- a reader
Yes you are right in that our current gun control policies do virtually nothing to stop gun violence. The daily news is so distressing. If our lawmakers would “grow a pair” and enact capital punishment for gun crimes, our society might have a hope. Right now I feel hopeless.
-- a reader
Thank you for your email on Gun Violence.
When I read it, I said: Hallelujah, finally some clear and objective thinking.
The current justice system favours the criminals, enrich lawyers and provides no incentive for the criminals to stop their criminal activities. The victims and their families are left with perceived solidarity, flowers and teddy bears, but no justice. It’s time to bring back the death penalty and stop this preventable tragedy. Thank for writing this narrative.
-- a reader
You are posting the best information I have read on this issue I’m not great on a computer but I hope you can reach members of government, but not just ours .!!!!!
This topic is happenings all over the world , the more people who read and agree, the better chance of ending this problem.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-- a reader
Re: gun laws not working here in Canada, I totally agree…..
Same with drugs, etc….
My little city of 100,000 has now become THE most criminal & dangerous city in Canada, how sad…..
In the last 2 years, my little city is no longer the same city I once loved… I plan on moving
-- a reader
I totally agree with you doctor…..the criminals are laughing at the laws ……we basically live in a lawless society……I think the last hanging in Canada was in the middle or late 50s……my father was a clerk of the court and sheriff at the time…….he predicted the way that the world would evolve with that decision and here we are ……
-- a reader
I’m in favour of stricter gun laws because of having read that in England and Australia, where guns are not allowed, there are fewer mass murders.
I am dubious about the deterrence power of capital punishment because what I have read says that criminologists have studied that, before and after a change in the law, and there was no benefit. It was said that a possible reason is that most murderers don’t believe that they will be caught. A mass murderer is often different, he is thinking of being killed. Often they commit suicide.
Why not execute them anyway even if it won’t deter others? There is a steady trickle of murder convictions which later turn out to be false. I remember reading about a governor of Illinois or Indiana who resigned because while he was in office 10 blacks were executed who later were found to have been innocent. He could not stand the responsibility of deciding on commuting the sentence when the error rate was so high.
When a mass murderer is captured alive, often it seems like there is very little doubt compared to the average murder case. But I would like to know what a professional thinks about this.
SIngapore and drugs: I just don’t know. In the Philippines there is currently a severe campaign which is drawing criticism. I would take their president more seriously if it were not that when he sent his soldiers to Mindanao to get the pushers, he instructed them that they were not to rape more than three women.
Anyway I share your abhorrence of these murders, often of the most vulnerable, nice people around, and also of the numerous deaths of bystanders to gang violence in Toronto.
-- a reader
I agree that tougher gun control with offenders is the answer. Will politicians have the b…s to do it …. I don’t think so …. so sad
-- a reader
I agree 100% with your comments on gun control. If these evil thugs KNEW that 10 years will be added onto any sentence they receive for a crime, they’d definitely think twice about carrying guns. Too bad our gutless politicians can’t see that……
-- a reader
I agree with you that our laws are weak, even useless, but I have lived in a country that at one time practiced death penalty, and I hope never to go back to that.
I do feel that our governments need to implement severe punishment, no repeat offender should be on the street, ever! and furthermore, the laws have to be carried out at a reasonable time. At the moment it’s common practice to let offenders go free because the lawyers delayed the trial so long. The system really is a charade, but we keep electing politicians that put criminal’s rights ahead of the victims, so much for human rights and freedom!
As far as gun control….well, you can control long guns as much as you want, but the crimes are committed by automatic and hand guns that were acquired illegally in the black market, not by those registered for legal purpose.
I am a peaceful person and hope to end my days in my own bed, but truly that notion is beginning to look unrealistic sometimes.
I love your books and articles, and I wish you a wonderful and healthy 2020.
-- a reader in Meaford
Sir. You are 100% right. Criminals will not follow any new gun laws any politician makes. Criminals don’t follow the laws we have now , if they did they wouldn’t be criminals.
Thank you for taking up the fight.
-- a reader
Hello. I agree that our laws are inadequate where gun violence and drug trafficking are concerned. I’m not in favour of capital punishment because mistakes in evidence gathering are possible.
However: in my view, appropriate prison sentences , much longer than those currently handed down, would send a message to perpetrators. At present most get what amounts to a slap of the wrist and even that is often diluted further by early parole and so-called humane incarceration. I shudder when I think of the two females who drowned their mother, then were released back into the unsuspecting community . There’s a lot to be said for reverting to less comfortable accommodations, no release to halfway houses that cater to the criminals.
A life sentence should mean just that.
-- a reader
Bring back capital punishment as a deterrent!
-- a reader
Capital punishment: Rx for gun crimes…also ban `military’ style weapons
-- a reader
People kill with car. Should cars be banned?
People kill with drugs. Should drugs be banned?
I have two guns and use them on the farm whenever and wherever necessary.
The one is a double barrel shotgun, the other is a .22 with a 10 bullet magazine. However it takes time between shots with the .22. The spent has to be ejected first.
What I sincerely object to is guns that can spray a dozen or more bullets around in a matter of seconds.
I think they should be banned and violations should be severely punished.
I am still against capital punishment in general. It should be aa last resort and only if there is solid evidence of guilt.
-- a reader
I agree with you 100% on the subject. For your purposes here’s my Gun biography:
I am 90 years old. I was raised in the Western states in a rifle carrying society. I became a rifleman at the age of 12. Later in life I was drafted in the US Army where I became acquainted with and instructed in the use of the M1 rifle, the Browning AR, and the light machine gun.
Still later in life I moved to a remote area of British Columbia where I partially fed my family with a rifle. (I last missed a shot was in 1973). My rifle of choice was a Faqueson action, single shot, 270 Winchester.
Nobody needs an automatic or repeating rifle. If you don’t have an immediate and sure kill, don’t squeeze the trigger.
I now live in Vancouver. I do not own a firearm because I don’t have a use for one.
Those who were not in a remote area or who are not professional law enforcers, there is no reason to own a firearm. For people in any situation there is no reason to own a pistol.
-- a reader
good article doc but you missed the one thing that would not make a diff to what your proposing …. that is access to military grade assault weapons … if that is not addressed first, nothing will ever change …. these mass shooters know going in there is a good chance they will be killed or they end up killing themselves …. what matters to them is the carnage they can cause before they check out and that’s where these weapons help them achieve their goals ….. there is no desire on the part of the powers that be to address that … so get used to it because it wont change …. just make sure the next time you go to a wallmart or church or high school or carnival or what ever, you be looking over your shoulder unless, as Trump has suggested, arm yourself so you can shoot back …. pretty sad i’d say …… thanks
