Don't Forget To Lock The Gate

     I have never been mugged or even had a gun pointed at me in a violent matter.  Nor am I naive enough to think it could never happen.   Parts of America seems to be under assault  which is causing many neighborhood to lock themselves behind gates.  Are you one of those gate minded Americans who's bunker mentality falsely reinforces your safety?  If you take the time to analyze the crime statistics of any gated community you will find out the fear of crime far exceeds any actual crime.  That simple fear led many states to expand the Castle Doctrine in  ways for which  it was not meant,  giving a citizen self protection rights far outside the Doctrine.  Reckless vigilantism was never meant to be part of the Castle Doctrine but in some states it is not only accepted but it's legal.  The self defense claims of bunker mentality lives on through fear but should have no place in the Castle Doctrine.  Don't misunderstand me!  If someone breaks into your house, shoot the SOB right between the eyes.  If that were to happen you would be protected under the Castle Doctrine.  But don't go walking through your neighborhood with the intent of waving a gun and challenging someone just because you think they don't belong there
     Private schools, private playgrounds, private roads, private parks, private communities and even private cops.  We will do just about anything when it comes living with our fears of crime.  Bunker Mentality will continue to live on in America because the "Haves" are afraid they will become the "Have-Nots".  If only the world could share and share alike.  We all know that's never going to happen so as much as I hate to admit, we all better remember to close and lock the gate.