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Staten Island Neighborhood Really, Really Loves Guns

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Graph via the Post

In the wake of the tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona two weeks ago, much of the ensuing discussion has revolved around the permissive gun laws in the country. But there's at least one part of NYC that doesn't see any reason for debate: the towns in the 10312 ZIP code, which cover's Staten Island's Annadale, Arden Heights and Eltingville sections, where one in every 56 males is packing heat, the most by far in the city. "[Guns are] a beautiful thing to own," said resident Peter Bruno, 73.

The area is home to the highest number of NYPD gun-permit holders in the city with 509. According to the Post, the neighborhood is filled with single-family homes and attached town houses, largely populated with conservative-leaning civil servants like cops and firefighters, and Wall Streeters. "That's the quintessential group that owns guns for their home and family protection," said the area's city councilman Vincent Ignizio. Other residents add that many security guards and retired law enforcement agents live in the area, which is close to two private gun ranges. Despite (or advocates would argue because of) the huge amount of guns, the area is incredibly safe statistically: the 123rd Precinct has seen a 27 percent decrease in major crimes over the past 10 years, and there were just two homicides there in 2009 and 2010.

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Comments [rss]

  • robingee

    I would like to know some statistics on how many homeowners with guns actually used them effectively to protect their houses and families, as this is the main argument I hear from pro-gun people.

  • Petey

    1 in 56 males ISN'T that high. So if you rob 56 people, chances are only 1 will have a gun.

  • silver

    Now I know where all the cops in new york live. New yorkers cant own guns by law.

  • Unkle_Bob

    Yes they can.

  • ih8bloomturd

    I bet close to 100% of the crimes committed is by ILLEGAL GUNS

  • Guest

    Illegal guns purchased legally in the South.

  • Petey

    If its a straw purchase, its not legal.

  • Guest

    But there are essentially no checks in place in some states to prevent straw purchases.

  • Rocknrope

    I'm sure the NRA is well aware of this zip code, and the associated low crime statistics related to it.

  • mrmanhattan

    Of course the crime rate is low, who steals an old refrigerator, or a '78 Chevy on cinder blocks off the front lawn?

  • ohgodkillmenow

    Don't worry, in due time, the government will find a way to force these backwards heathen to abandon their primitive mode of self defense in favor of the wonderful Promissory Protection Plan enjoyed by millions of proper, state-fearing citizens across the nation.

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