Assignment:
On October 1, 2005, Florida became the first state to enact a statute allowing the use of deadly force to prevent the commission of a “forcible felony,” such as robbery, carjacking, and sexual battery. The law allows Floridians to use deadly force without proving that they feared for their safety. This law extends to homes and vehicles. The law also prohibits the arrest, detention, or prosecution of individuals covered by the law. Additionally, the law prohibits civil suits against said individuals. The trend here is clearly to expand the right to shoot home and vehicle intruders who pose no physical threat to the occupant’s safety. There are many states who have enacted or are considering enacting similar laws.
- Conduct research to determine whether your home state has enacted or is contemplating the enactment of similar laws.
- Those who are against stand-your-ground laws argue that they encourage vigilantism and preemptive shootings. Discuss whether you agree or disagree. Explain.
- “A person’s home is his or her castle.” Discuss whether this traditional saying justify the use of deadly force against an intruder under all circumstances. Why or why not.