Measure seeks to protect homeowners who kill criminals
BEN NEARY Associated Press writer | Posted: Friday, February 15, 2008 12:00 am
CHEYENNE - Some Wyoming legislators want to change state law to specify that homeowners couldn't be prosecuted or sued in civil court if they kill anyone who enters their home illegally.
Supporters say the proposed "castle doctrine" bill is necessary to specify that Wyoming residents have no duty to retreat from criminals in their own homes. They say the principle goes back to the English common law saying that, "A man's home is his castle."
The National Rifle Association has made passing such bills a priority across the country. The NRA reports that similar laws already have been enacted in 20 states and are pending in five more, including Wyoming.
Opponents of such legislation include the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, which says such laws make it more likely that people will act like vigilantes and shoot each other unnecessarily.
Meanwhile, Natrona County District Attorney Mike Blonigen, head of the Wyoming Prosecutors Association, said Thursday that he sees no reason for the law in Wyoming. He said it's already clearly established that state residents have a right to protect themselves in their homes.
Rep. Lorraine Quarberg, R-Thermopolis, is the main sponsor of the bill. She said she expects the House to vote whether to accept the bill today. She said she's a life member of the NRA, but said the group didn't help her to draft the legislation.
"It's not just about a gun issue, it's about your right to self defense," Quarberg said. "To me, the bill is really important, because it really fortifies our right to self defense."