After careful consideration, the MCA has determined Stapleton will be a safer neighborhood if residents are allowed to openly carry firearms. “After looking into gun issues we have had in this country, it becomes more and more clear that the more guns we have, the less likely we will have gun violene,” said MCA spokesperson Liza Kampstra. “This was a challenging issue, and we know people are going to disagree with the decision. But, the truth is, the numbers prove it. If we have more guns, we will have less gun violence. That’s just science.” The discussion came up within the MCA and SUN after Rick Perry discussed a safer America. “We needed guidance, and the place most people look, of course, is Rick Perry,” said Kampstra. “He just makes a lot of sense.”
The new rule will go into effect in October and will be included in the HOA, provided it gets the stamp of approval from local government officials. “I’m not necessarily sure this is the best thing for Stapleton,” said police official Dan Brees. “There is a lot of contradictory information out there. I don’t think it is time to just jump in with both feet. It may be time to take a step back and really understand if this is necessary or makes sense. I mean, is there enough violence going on in Stapleton that would even justify someone using a gun to stop it?” Most Stapleton crime is petty larceny, but the MCA feels there is a chance open carry in Stapleton would curb that. “If these criminals coming into our homes or garages felt there was a chance they would be shot, maybe they would think twice,” said Kampstra.
As expected, Stapleton residents are split on the new rule. “I think it’s great,” said resident Randy Madison. “Outsiders will be a lot more careful now coming into our hood.” Ron Gill agrees. “When people realize we mean business, they will stay out of ours,” said Gill. “We need to make things right, and guns are the best way to do it.” Molly Tims disagrees. “The fact that anyone thinks that more guns will create less gun violence is crazy,” said Tims. “There are so many kids in this neighborhood, and increasing the chance of an accidental shooting is crazy.” Aaron O’Neil feels guns should be controlled in the neighborhood. “We can’t ignore common sense,” said O’Neil. “Lots of untrained people carrying guns is just a bad idea. I don’t see how this can end well.” The City and County of Denver plan to hold three more discussions before approving or disapproving the MCA’s open carry provision.]]>