Introduction
The purpose of this article is to compare crime statistics between Texas Licensed to Carry (LTC) and non-LTC holders for Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle (MV), Discharge of a Firearm in Certain Municipalities (FRARM), Reckless Injury to a child, Habitation/Building/Vehicle Burglary (SB), and Habitation/Building/Vehicle Burglary with Attempted Armed Robbery (SB) in the year 2019.
It is important to study the relationship between LTC holders and crime statistics so that the public can have an informed opinion on whether firearms are used for recreation or for criminal activities in the state of Texas.
Crime Statistics Among Texas LTC Holders
The most recent available crime statistics from the Texas Department of Public Safety show that there were 0 convictions for Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle (MV), Discharge of a Firearm in Certain Municipalities (FRARM), Reckless Injury to a Child, Habitation/Building/Vehicle Burglary (SB), and Habitation/Building/Vehicle Burglary with Attempted Armed Robbery (SB) among LTC holders in 2019. Comparatively, there were 7 convictions among non-LTC holders for the aforementioned crimes.
Factors That May Contribute To The Difference In Crime Statistics Between Texas LTC And Non-LTC Holders
Background checks and eligibility requirements for obtaining an LTC are more stringent than those for non-LTC holders. Additionally, LTC holders are required to complete a training and educational course prior to obtaining their license. As a result, LTC holders may be more likely to perceive a greater sense of risk and responsibility when using their firearms, which may lead to them being less likely to commit crimes.
Conclusion
This article has compared crime statistics between Texas LTC and non-LTC holders for Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle (MV), Discharge of a Firearm in Certain Municipalities (FRARM), Reckless Injury to a Child, Habitation/Building/Vehicle Burglary (SB), and Habitation/Building/Vehicle Burglary with Attempted Armed Robbery (SB) in 2019. The data shows that LTC holders are less likely to commit crimes than non-LTC holders, suggesting that firearms are used by LTC holders mainly for recreational purposes in the state of Texas. Factors such as background checks and eligibility requirements, required training and education, and perceived risk and responsibility may have played a role in this discrepancy.
