224: Deadly Consequences of a "Shoot-First" America

Today, 38 states have some variation of a Stand Your Ground law, which typically permits an individual to protect themselves with reasonable force — including deadly force — to prevent death or great bodily harm. Increasingly, however, many states' Stand Your Ground laws allow an individual to use deadly force without a duty to retreat.

While proponents of these policies claim they're vital to the public's protection, states lacking a duty to retreat have seen a rise in homicides of 10% or more — leading critics to claim that unfettered Stand Your Ground laws should really be called "shoot first" laws.

To discuss how these laws developed, how they have been used to embolden individuals to use unnecessary and disproportionate force (especially against marginalized communities), and the many impacts of an over-armed society, hosts Kelly and JJ are joined by Kami N. Chavis, R. Hugh and Nolie Haynes Professor of Law and Director of the William and Mary Center for Criminal Justice Policy and Reform. Professor Chavis shares not just the implications and effects of these laws, but also what everyone can be doing to best protect themselves and their neighbors.

Further reading:
What are “Stand Your Ground Laws?” (Brady)
What Are 'Stand Your Ground' Laws, and When Do They Apply? (The New York Times)
Can a doorbell ring justify a ‘stand your ground’ shooting? (AP)
In two recent cases, homeowners have been charged with shooting people on their property. Here’s what the law says (CNN)
‘Stand your ground’: the US laws linked to rising deaths and racist violence (the Guardian)