Let’s tell gun thieves what homes to target

Using the Freedom of Information Act, a process designed to increase the transparency of government, The Associated Press has requested the release of the names of all the people registered as gun owners in Illinois. Increasing numbers of people in the country, wanting to defend themselves against the violent acts of armed criminals, have been buying firearms for home protection.

In Illinois, the law requires those people to register as firearm owners by obtaining a Firearms Owner ID (FOID) card. Criminals who have obtained their guns via the black market are generally not, for some reason, FOID card holders.

The Illinois State Police have denied the request, saying that is confidential information. They consider the release of that information an unwarranted invasion of privacy prohibited by the state’s public records law, and that it would endanger the lives of lawful gun owners and non-gun owners alike. Thieves would then know which homes have guns to steal, and which homes are vulnerable because those who live there are unarmed.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s office has issued a letter rejecting the state police arguments. The issue is now under a temporary restraining order but, if Lisa Madigan gets her way, it would be reasonable to expect an increase in the number of home invasions. After all, the firearms black market does need a supply source.

Gib Van Dine

West Chicago