Quote:
Originally Posted by TX-JB
Just reading the printed story, the castle doctrine law isn't really in question here. There have been laws on the books in Texas for years, that would have allowed the homeowner to use deadly force, without relying on the protection of the castle doctrine. There is no need for the BG to be inside your home in order to use deadly force in Texas, there never has been. If you feel threatened, there is no requirement, that the BG be inside with you. Remember, theft and criminal mischief at night time, are legal justifications to use deadly force, in Texas.
I was raised here and was taught that if you go sneaking around someone's home or property at night, you are fair game and could get shot. Most folks teach their kids the same thing, it's called respect for others. This is especially true in rural areas, where LEO's are few and far between.
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I work for the City Utilities, and my job has me sometimes troubleshooting at all odd hours of the day/night, through people's yards and around their houses. Many times in the wee hours of the morn'. I always leave my radio (2-way) on
maximun volume, leave all my truck lights flashing, and carry the biggest, baddest, most obnoxious floodlight I can get, and I'm not shy about flashing it across all the residents' bedroom and bathroom windows as I traverse the areas necessary. I also wear the most dorky choice of uniform I can (we have some options, including blue-jeans, which I forego) so I look like Dobie Gillis more than anything. I've survived this job unscathed for 20 years by NOT skulking around. I've never been threatened, had a phone-in complaint, or other inconvenience, although I've had many people walk out on the back patio to see "who the
H&LL" was out there. Point is, I could have been shot many times, and the residents could have gotten away with it legally some of those times -
IF people were as trigger-happy as the BS media tries to make out we are. Most people just want to be secure, and no matter how much of an ass I behave I've never appeared to be a threat. A PITA, yes, but never a threat. (Even made some good friends - eventually.)
Stay safe,
Chuck Brick.