Road Rage on a lonely highway, Why avoidance and non-leathal force is the best policy

 

A student I trained many years ago in a concealed carry class recently shared an intense experience reinforcing the core principle I emphasize during every session: avoidance is the first line of defense. This student found himself in a frightening road rage situation that could have escalated to violence but didn’t—thanks to quick thinking and the lessons he recalled from our training.

The incident began when another driver abruptly stopped in the middle of the road, blocking his path. The other driver’s demeanor looked angry, but he never spoke a word. My former student felt trapped and feared for his safety. While his concealed carry firearm was within reach, he remembered my voice during that critical moment: “Avoidance is the first line of defense.” Instead of engaging, he quickly backed up, executed a three-point turn, and escaped the situation without further confrontation.

Later, when he recounted the story to me, he expressed relief that he didn’t have to resort to deadly force. "Scott," he said, "I didn’t want to kill someone over road rage. But is there an alternative? What if it happens again?”

I reassured him that he made the right decision by de-escalating and avoiding conflict. I also introduced him to an effective non-lethal personal defense option: the S2 Pepper Launcher by Salt and Mace.

Why the S2 Pepper Launcher is a Game-Changer in Personal Defense

The S2 Pepper Launcher is an innovative and highly effective non-lethal defense tool designed for stopping a threat without resorting to deadly force. It combines the power of chemical irritants with precision delivery, allowing you to incapacitate an attacker from a safe distance.

Here’s what makes the S2 Pepper Launcher an essential addition to your personal defense toolkit:

1. Long-Range Protection: The S2 can incapacitate an aggressor up to 150 feet away, allowing you to maintain distance and avoid close contact.

2. Potent Chemical Formula: The launcher fires projectiles filled with a powerful pepper spray formula that creates an immediate, debilitating reaction. The chemical cloud causes intense eye irritation, coughing, and disorientation, stopping threats in their tracks.

3. Easy to Use: With its lightweight and ergonomic design, the S2 is intuitive, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced defenders.

4. Non-Lethal Alternative: One of the greatest benefits of the S2 is that it provides a way to stop a threat without taking a life, aligning with the moral and legal considerations many concealed carry holders face.

5. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a reliable, non-lethal option can reduce hesitation in high-stress situations where quick decisions are crucial.

Why Avoidance is Still the Best Strategy

This road rage encounter powerfully reminds us that avoidance is the foundation of personal safety. My student’s ability to disengage and escape likely saved two lives that day—his and the other driver’s. However, when avoidance isn’t enough, having a non-lethal option like the S2 Pepper Launcher can make all the difference.

For concealed carry holders and anyone interested in personal defense, the S2 represents a proactive step toward staying safe while minimizing the risk of legal and emotional consequences that come with the use of deadly force. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking peace of mind without the weight of life-and-death decisions hanging over every encounter.

As a concealed carry instructor, my goal has always been to prepare students for real-world scenarios, emphasizing responsibility, de-escalation, and effective self-defense strategies. Stories like this remind me why I teach—and why tools like the S2 Pepper Launcher are invaluable additions to modern personal defense.

If you want to learn more about the S2 Pepper Launcher or improve your self-defense skills, consider signing up for one of my classes. Together, we can ensure you’re prepared for whatever challenges life throws.

Russian Mercenary Drones Alert

 The recent discovery of a Russian mercenary at the U.S. border carrying drones and multiple passports has raised serious concerns about national security and espionage threats. According to authorities, the individual was apprehended attempting to cross the border with advanced drone equipment and counterfeit identification documents from several countries. This incident highlights the evolving nature of security challenges and the need for heightened vigilance from citizens and law enforcement.

The presence of drones, often associated with reconnaissance and surveillance operations, adds a layer of complexity to this case. These unmanned devices can be used for various purposes, including mapping critical infrastructure, gathering intelligence, and deploying harmful payloads. The mercenary’s possession of multiple passports also suggests a sophisticated network aimed at bypassing traditional border security measures. Such activities endanger national security and pose risks to local communities.

For the average citizen, staying alert to potential threats is crucial. Suspicious behavior, such as individuals taking an unusual interest in critical infrastructure like power plants, airports, or military installations, should be reported to authorities immediately. Citizens should also be cautious of unfamiliar drones operating near sensitive areas or private properties. If you notice a drone flying in a restricted area or engaging in erratic behavior, reporting it to local law enforcement or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is essential.

Countermeasures to protect against potential threats include increased public awareness and adopting proactive measures. Homeowners and businesses can invest in anti-drone technologies, such as signal jammers or detection systems, to safeguard their properties. Communities should also consider organizing neighborhood watch programs to monitor unusual activities. At a broader level, supporting initiatives to strengthen border security and promote cybersecurity awareness can help mitigate risks foreign agents pose.

Citizens should also be aware of the importance of safeguarding personal information, as foreign operatives may exploit social media and digital platforms to gather intelligence. Regularly updating passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and reporting phishing attempts are small but effective ways to reduce vulnerabilities.

The discovery of the Russian mercenary at the border underscores the need for constant vigilance in an increasingly complex security landscape. While law enforcement agencies play a pivotal role in protecting the nation, public participation and awareness remain critical in countering threats. By staying informed, adopting preventative measures, and reporting suspicious activities, citizens can contribute to a safer and more secure environment.

Jamaica- Queens Home Invasions and Robberies Surge

 

A series of violent home invasions and robberies have recently unsettled the Jamaica neighborhood in Queens, New York City. In early January 2025, a group of nine masked individuals believed to be teenagers, carried out two home invasions on 147th Place in Flushing. In the first incident, they broke a front window with a hammer, assaulted a 37-year-old resident by stabbing him in the back, and stole jewelry and clothing before fleeing in a gray Toyota Sienna. The victim was hospitalized in stable condition. In the second incident, they smashed a living room window and stole approximately $25,000 in cash and a bracelet; no injuries were reported. 

Additionally, on November 16, 2024, four unidentified suspects violently attacked a 21-year-old man outside a Wendy’s restaurant at 138-42 Jamaica Avenue. They stabbed him multiple times in the stomach and abdomen while stealing his cell phone. The victim was hospitalized in stable condition, and the suspects fled westbound along Jamaica Avenue.

The NYPD is actively investigating these incidents and seeking public assistance to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS or submit tips online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org. All communications are confidential.

These events have heightened concerns about safety in the Jamaica area, prompting calls for increased police presence and community vigilance to address the surge in violent crimes.

Fake Amazon Delivery Scammers Target Georgia Residents in Bold Theft Scheme

 

A sophisticated theft ring in Georgia poses as Amazon delivery personnel to carry out brazen robberies, leaving residents shocked and law enforcement on high alert. The scheme, reported in various neighborhoods across the state, involves individuals dressed in authentic-looking Amazon uniforms driving unmarked or counterfeit delivery vehicles.

The criminals approach homes under the guise of delivering packages. Often, they carry Amazon-branded boxes or tote bags to appear legitimate. Sometimes, they even knock on doors, claiming they need a signature or assistance with a "large delivery." Once they gain access to the property, they steal valuables or packages left outside by the homeowner.

"I was expecting a delivery, so I didn’t think twice about opening the door," said Amanda Lewis, a resident of Cobb County. "The person was wearing an Amazon vest and even carried a scanner. It wasn’t until later that I realized some packages I had left outside were gone."

Authorities believe the thieves monitor neighborhoods to identify homes where deliveries are frequent, or packages are left unattended. Surveillance footage from affected areas shows suspects scouting homes before approaching them. Once inside or near the property, they quickly take valuables and flee.

Police also report instances of scammers tampering with actual Amazon deliveries. Sometimes, they leave stolen packages on porches and replace them with empty boxes to avoid immediate detection.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has issued a public advisory, urging residents to exercise caution when dealing with unsolicited visitors claiming to be delivery personnel.

“This type of crime is particularly concerning because it exploits people’s trust in widely recognized services like Amazon,” said GBI spokesperson Captain Laura Mitchell. “We’re working closely with local police departments and Amazon to track down these individuals.”

Amazon has also issued a statement emphasizing that all its official delivery personnel are trained to follow strict protocols. The company reminded customers to look for Amazon-branded delivery vehicles, badges, and official notifications through their app when expecting a delivery.

How to Protect Yourself

To avoid becoming a victim of these crimes, authorities recommend the following steps:

1. Verify Delivery Personnel: Use Amazon’s app to track deliveries and verify the identity of delivery personnel.

2. Install Security Cameras: Video doorbells or security cameras can help deter criminals and capture evidence.

3. Be Cautious of Unsolicited Visits: If someone claiming to be a delivery driver asks for assistance, verify their credentials before engaging.

4. Report Suspicious Activity: Notify local law enforcement if you notice unusual behavior in your neighborhood.

5. Secure Deliveries: Use Amazon Locker or similar services for added security.

Community Response

Several neighborhoods in Georgia have formed watch groups to address the issue collectively. In Fulton County, residents have begun using social media platforms to share real-time alerts about suspicious activities.

“This has brought our community closer,” said David Perez, a neighborhood watch leader in Atlanta. “We’re determined to stop these criminals and ensure everyone feels safe.”

Local police departments and the GBI are intensifying their efforts to apprehend the suspects. They urge anyone with information about these crimes to contact the authorities immediately.

In the meantime, Georgians are encouraged to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard their homes and belongings.