Please note that this post contains affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward MageeNews.com a small commission – at no extra cost to you.
Dear citizens and followers,
I want to take a moment to clarify the Castle Doctrine and self defense laws for those who may have heard misinformation or opinion presented as fact.
You cannot legally use deadly force simply because someone is trespassing, yelling, or damaging your property. Deadly force is justified only when you reasonably believe that you or someone else faces imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm, or when stopping certain violent felonies such as armed robbery, rape, or home invasion.
If someone is on your property and runs away, you are not justified in shooting them. Likewise, using deadly force to stop theft when no threat to life exists can lead to serious criminal charges.
Multiple intruders do not have to be present for you to defend yourself. However, if multiple people forcibly enter your home and move toward you or your family, the law recognizes this as a disparity of force. Even if they are not visibly armed, you may reasonably fear for your life and defend yourself under Mississippi’s Castle Doctrine.
It’s also important to understand that if their level of threat diminishes, your level of force must also decrease. Continuing to use force after the threat is gone can turn a lawful defense into a criminal act.
The law also protects you if you face a deadly threat while in your vehicle or place of business, and there is no duty to retreat in these situations.
Your response must always be proportional to the threat you face. Non deadly threats require non deadly responses. Deadly force should always be a last resort, used only to stop an immediate and serious threat to life.
Please avoid relying on hearsay or social media myths. Understanding the law is essential to protecting yourself within your rights.
Please sign up for an enhanced conceal carry class with a reputable certified trainer.
Stay lawful, stay free
Chief Denis J. Borges
Magee Police Department
MageeNews.com is the online news source for Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi
