Aside from the basics like cameras and doorbell rings, what else can be done to protect your property? From what I know, you can’t shoot a burglar unless they pose a real threat to you. Is there any way to stop them without causing serious harm or death? I’m okay with using firearms but I’m worried about the legal consequences that might come after.
The amount of force you can legally use against an intruder really depends on where you live. In some places like certain US states, you don’t have to run away from your own home and can assume the intruder means harm. This could make any amount of force legal. Outside the home, it’s different, so check your local laws. But really, you should avoid using lethal force unless absolutely necessary. Focus on deterring, detecting, and delaying before anything else.
@Landyn
In New Jersey, for example, it’s a duty to retreat. So you’d have to explain why you didn’t try to escape through a window before shooting an armed burglar in your house. States with Castle Doctrine generally allow lethal force in your home or vehicle. But if you’re inside your house and someone is breaking into your car, you can’t just shoot them through the window. If you confront someone stealing your car and they show a weapon, self-defense might be legal, but it can still be dangerous. You never know if they have someone else waiting. This all depends on local laws.
Some states have something called Castle Doctrine, which changes things when it comes to illegal entry and using a gun to defend yourself. I told my wife there are two sides to every story… yours and the burglar’s. But if you stop them from telling their side, you just have your story.
I’ve never gotten why there’s this “imminent threat” rule. If someone is breaking into my house, they are an imminent threat by default. No need for anything else.
Sage said:
I’ve never gotten why there’s this “imminent threat” rule. If someone is breaking into my house, they are an imminent threat by default. No need for anything else.
Yeah, it doesn’t make sense. Our doors are there for people we let in, not for people who force their way in. If they’re breaking into my house, their rights are gone in my eyes. A lot of cases involving kids or troublemakers getting shot while sneaking into homes probably started the whole “imminent threat” idea.
Sage said:
I’ve never gotten why there’s this “imminent threat” rule. If someone is breaking into my house, they are an imminent threat by default. No need for anything else.
It’s not about what you think, it’s about what a jury thinks. You might have to convince them why you thought there was an immediate threat and hope they agree.
@Jody
Actually, it’s not just about the jury. It’s what the police and district attorney think first. They have to decide if a crime occurred before it even gets to a jury. Around here, if someone breaks into your home and gets shot, there’s almost never an arrest. No charges, nothing.
@Jody
And remember, it’s a two-step process. You have to convince a couple of people to avoid a guilty verdict, but you might have to convince over a third of people if the burglar sues you later.
It really depends on where you live. If you’re in the city, your neighbors might be your best defense. If you’re in the country, dogs are great for scaring off burglars.
“He was coming right for me.”
Marley said:
“He was coming right for me.”
Scuzzlebutt?
Lights and alarms are really helpful. Once burglars realize they’re being detected, they usually leave.
Lights are your friend. Criminals hate bright lights.
Zara said:
Lights are your friend. Criminals hate bright lights.
Motion-activated lights work best. If it’s just a regular light, some burglars won’t care, and it might just make it easier for them to see while they steal stuff.
We’re looking into defensive landscaping.
Shan said:
We’re looking into defensive landscaping.
Feed me, Seymour!
I’m not sure why some states don’t have the Castle Doctrine or a duty to retreat. I’d suggest looking into safety films for windows and French doors, especially with silicone glazing. It could cost a few thousand dollars, and it’s hard to install yourself. For doors, reinforced plates and barricades are a good idea. Legally, the system can be tricky, so make sure you’re prepared.
It’s not completely safe, but generally, you can try to stop them if they are clearly doing something illegal, like smashing in your front door. If they swing at you, you have the right to defend yourself. Some people definitely take action, but I wouldn’t personally recommend it.
@Teo
The law is usually about ‘defense of property’ and needs to be proportional. Shooting someone just for breaking a window isn’t usually seen as proportional force in many places.