Percentage of Gun Homicides Committed Using Legally-Obtained Firearms: Debunking Myths and Realities
The question of gun homicides and whether they are committed using legally-owned firearms is a complex and often contentious topic. Let's delve into the data and insights surrounding this issue, separating myths from facts.
Understanding Gun Homicides vs. Murders
Firstly, it's crucial to clarify the distinction between homicides and murders. Homicide refers to the killing of one human being by another, while murder specifically involves the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. This distinction is important because it changes our perspective on the data and the legal implications.
Data and Studies
According to a comprehensive survey conducted by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), which collates data from law enforcement, academic papers, and news accounts, it has been found that 77 percent of mass shooters between 1966 and 2019 had legally purchased the weapons they used in their crimes. This highlights the significant role that legal firearms can play in mass shootings.
However, when it comes to the overall percentage of gun homicides committed with legally-owned firearms, the picture is less clear due to the lack of comprehensive and detailed data from all jurisdictions. The absence of such data makes it difficult to provide an exact percentage. Nonetheless, the specific studies that focus on firearms used in all crimes (not just homicides) paint a different picture. A recent 2022 study found that only 10 percent of firearms used in crimes were legally owned.
Gun Ownership and Criminal Intent
A study published in Psychological Science suggests that less than 0.01 percent of legal gun owners commit crimes. This is a staggering statistic that underscores the fact that it is much easier for individuals to misuse firearms illegally than to obtain them legally. Additionally, the same study points out that legal gun owners are more likely to commit suicide with their firearms rather than engaging in criminal behavior.
Given that legal gun owners are overwhelmingly more likely to use their firearms for legal purposes, such as hunting or home defense, it is important to place the focus on preventing crime and reducing suicide rather than regulating gun ownership. The majority of gun deaths in the United States are due to suicides, which account for approximately 54 percent, with murders making up 41 percent of all gun deaths.
Legal Versus Illegal Ownership
The premises of legal versus illegal firearm ownership are also worth addressing. For instance, individuals who are convicted of felonies are prohibited from owning firearms. The moment someone attempts murder, they become a prohibited person and are ineligible to own guns. It is important to note that restriction of civil rights based on the legal ownership of a firearm is unconstitutional.
In cases where legally owned firearms are involved, there are various scenarios to consider. Straw purchases by legal gun owners (where they obtain a firearm and then transfer it to the actual intended user) contribute to the issue. Additionally, there are instances where firearms are stolen, either from homes or through illegal sales by licensed dealers.
It's also worth mentioning that a significant portion of legally purchased firearms are used for legal purposes. Public records and studies support the notion that the majority (80-85 percent) of legally purchased firearms are used for lawful activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the percentage of gun homicides committed using legally-own firearms is not as high as some might assume. However, it does indicate a critical need for nuanced and effective gun control measures. Rather than focusing solely on legal ownership, policies should aim to address certain behaviors and mental health issues that lead to gun violence.
For a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding gun ownership and violence, it's essential to look at comprehensive and up-to-date studies. While Google can be a useful resource, it's important to back any findings with credible data and expert analysis.