Here is just a classic example of a Charlotte non-solution solution.
Uptown crime is a worry, particularly property crimes and the potential — if not the reality — of gang activity. The first phase of the non-solution to this problem involved Charlotte police writing tickets for things like illegal turns. This achieved its primary purpose of generating a few headlines about a police “crack down” Uptown — the equivalent of a head-pat for the suburbs — but otherwise achieved nothing.
Now, confronted with reports that citizens are taking things into their own hands by going Uptown lawfully armed, the second-phase of the non-solution is unveiled. If Uptown violence is a worry, pass a law banning the display of firearms.
This seems to be a law directed expressly at those citizens with valid gun permits, as it could not possibly be the case that Charlotte police do not arrest those who violate weapons laws, could it? If current prohibitions on the use, display, and ownership of weapons are properly enforced, why would we possibly need a new law? In fact, displaying a weapon in threatening manner could easily be construed as an attempt at strong-arm robbery or even carjacking. Are these not arrestable offenses anymore? Or are they simply too much trouble for the police and prosecutors?
Banning guns from Uptown. Another great Charlotte non-solution solution.
