All too often, we see news reports or social media posts about domestic violence situations ending in tragedy, with women being killed by their abusive husbands or boyfriends. Many women feel helpless and uncertain about whom to trust. Despite seeking help from the state, they often do not receive the assistance they need. Advocates of gun control often urge domestic violence victims to support new regulations, falsely claiming that these measures will keep them safe by making it harder for abusers to obtain firearms. The reality is that many domestic abusers obtain guns through illegal means, such as borrowing from a family member or close friend, buying on the street, using a straw purchaser, stealing a gun, or accessing a firearm already stored in their home or car.
What gun control advocates often overlook is that many women are killed by their boyfriend, or husband using means other than a firearm. Carol Bowne, a 39-year-old woman from New Jersey, demonstrated immense strength and courage by leaving her abusive ex-boyfriend after enduring years of suffering at his hands. Despite leaving her abuser, Carol Bowne was stalked and harassed by him for months. In response, she applied for a permit to purchase a pistol. However, the state of New Jersey mandates that residents, including domestic violence victims, must go through a lengthy waiting period and background check process to obtain a firearm permit. The process was supposed to take a maximum of 30 days; however, Ms. Bowne's application exceeded 42 days. Tragically, on June 3, 2015, her ex-boyfriend violated a restraining order against him and fatally stabbed her multiple times in the driveway of her apartment.
Carol Bowne's story tragically illustrates how gun control measures can inadvertently favor domestic abusers over survivors. I believe that if Bowne had been able to purchase a firearm and receive proper training from firearm instructors and advocates who understand the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors, her outcome might have been different. Domestic violence advocates like
@currermell and
@thereal_SnS, particularly with
@thereal_SnS being a licensed firearm instructor, play a crucial role in supporting women seeking help from those who understand their experiences and can provide the necessary training and support To prevent tragedies like Carol Bowne's and to encourage more success stories like Mel and Kerry's.