Comparing Crime Statistics Among Texas LTC and Non-LTC Holders
This article aims to compare the crime statistics between Texas LTC and non-LTC holders for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, family violence, and house burglary with a deadly weapon in 2021. Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is when someone intentionally or knowingly causes serious bodily injury or someone threatens another with imminent bodily injury. Family violence is when someone commits an act with the intent to cause physical harm or fear of imminent physical harm against a family member. House burglary with a deadly weapon is when someone unlawfully enters a habitation or habitation vehicle with the intent to commit a felony or theft and does an act with a deadly weapon that causes a risk of serious bodily injury.
It is important to study the relationship between LTC holders and crime statistics. Texas LTC holders are more likely to be law abiding citizens than non-LTC holders and it is important to understand why this difference exists.
Crime Statistics Among Texas LTC Holders
In 2021, there have been 2 convictions involving Texas LTC holders for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, family violence, and house burglary with a deadly weapon. This is compared to the 235 convictions of non-LTC holders for the same offences. This is a difference of 98.4% (2 out of 235) in favour of Texas LTC holders.
Factors That May Contribute to the Difference in Crime Statistics Between Texas LTC and Non-LTC Holders
One contributing factor to the difference in crime statistics between Texas LTC and non-LTC holders could be the background checks and eligibility requirements for obtaining an LTC. In order to obtain an LTC from the State of Texas, applicants must be at least 21 years old and must not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors. This could suggest that individuals who are eligible for an LTC are more law abiding citizens than those who are not eligible.
Another factor that could contribute to the difference in crime statistics between Texas LTC and non-LTC holders is the training and education that is required for an LTC. LTC holders are required to take and pass a training course on the safe handling and storage of firearms as well as a test on legal and ethical responsibilities related to carrying a handgun. This training could influence the behavior and attitude of LTC holders, making them more aware of the potential consequences of their actions.
Lastly, the perception of risk and responsibility among LTC holders may also play a role in the difference in crime statistics between Texas LTC and non-LTC holders. LTC holders are aware that they are permitted to carry firearms and may therefore feel a heightened sense of responsibility for the consequences of their actions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this comparison of crime statistics between Texas LTC and non-LTC holders found that LTC holders had 98.4% fewer convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, family violence, and house burglary with a deadly weapon than non-LTC holders. Factors such as background checks and eligibility requirements, training and education for LTC holders, and the perception of risk and responsibility among LTC holders may contribute to this difference.
These findings suggest that LTC holders are more law abiding citizens than non-LTC holders, as is generally assumed. This information can be used to further inform policy and education regarding firearms and their safe and responsible use.
