Ohio Media Sound Off On Castle Doctrine: Urban Editors Don't Like It

It didn't take long . . . editorial writers and columnists from Ohio newspapers are sounding off about Gov. Ted Strickland and his overwhelming approval -- and gubernatorial signature -- on long awaited Castle Doctrine legislation.

Not unexpectedly, urban editors don't like citizen safety legislation. Two pieces have popped up already. More are sure to come.

From the Columbus Dispatch, and columist Thomas Suddes (writing from the very liberal Ohio University campus in conservative southeast Ohio) comes the following:

"As usual, legislators, with Strickland's help, pandered to the gun lobby because, hey, if there's one thing Ohio unquestionably needs, it's more weapons."

Riiiiiiight . . . Mr. Suddes, I know you don't care about truth when it comes to your commentary on firearms law, but I'll say it anyway. This legislation didn't do anything to put more guns on the street. Or in people's homes. It is all about doing away with the insanity of an individual -- whose life has been threatened when someone broke into their home -- being sued if they use deadly force to stop the intruder. How is that creating "more weapons?"

From The Blade (Toledo), comes an incredibly irresponsible statement:

"In essence, the law gives homeowners and motorists the right to blow away anyone who enters their home or vehicle without permission."

In each of these dissenting views, the editors come to the rapid conclusion that Gov. Strickland was led astray by the evil lobbyists of the National Rifle Association. What they miss is that passage of SB 184 was a bi-partisan effort, passed overwhelmingly by both the Ohio Senate and Ohio House of Representatives.

What they miss is that this legislation has been demanded for years by Ohioans of all stripes. What they miss is that all their idealism about crime and the police won't keep some two-bit, worthless thug from violently attacking them, or their spouse or children, to get a few bucks for drugs or to steal a car.

And yes, some criminals just want to kill . . . for fun. If faced with such a threat, why should taxpayers be forced to worry whether their actions to defend themselves might result in a lawsuit against them by Mr. Scumbag's greedy family members?