The Castle Doctrine, a general review (Personal Security Training)

                                                              

                                                                     

The castle doctrine, also known as the "stand your ground" law, is a legal doctrine that allows individuals to use deadly force to defend themselves and their property in certain situations. The name "castle doctrine" comes from the idea that a person's home is their castle, and they have the right to protect it.

The castle doctrine is not a federal law but a state law that varies from state to state. Some states have comprehensive castle doctrine laws that allow individuals to use deadly force when they feel threatened. In contrast, other states have more narrow laws that only allow using deadly force in specific circumstances.

One of the main arguments in favour of the castle doctrine is that it gives individuals the right to protect themselves and their property from harm. In situations where an individual feels threatened, the castle doctrine allows them to use deadly force to defend themselves without fear of prosecution. This can be especially important for individuals who are at a disadvantage, such as elderly or disabled individuals who may not be able to physically defend themselves.

Another argument in favour of the castle doctrine is that it deters crime. If individuals know that they may face deadly force if they try to break into someone's home or threaten the homeowner, they may be less likely to commit such crimes.

However, there are also arguments against the castle doctrine. Some critics argue that it can lead to vigilante justice and that individuals may use deadly force unnecessarily or excessively. There have also been cases where the castle doctrine has been used to justify killing unarmed individuals, leading to controversy and outrage.

In addition, some states have "duty to retreat" laws, which require individuals to try to retreat or de-escalate a situation before using deadly force. These laws can conflict with the castle doctrine, as the castle doctrine allows individuals to use deadly force in some instances without the requirement to retreat.

The castle doctrine is a controversial legal doctrine with both supporters and critics. While it gives individuals the right to defend themselves and their property, it can also lead to the use of excessive or unnecessary force in certain situations. It is essential for individuals to understand the laws in their state regarding the castle doctrine and to use caution and good judgment when deciding to use deadly force to defend themselves.

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Laws of Self-Defence at a glance (Personal Security Training)

                                                              

The law of self-defence is a legal principle that allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from harm. This principle is rooted in the common law system, which originated in England in the early 1500s and has since been adopted by many countries around the World.

Under common law, self-defence is generally justified when an individual reasonably believes that they or someone else is in imminent danger of bodily harm or death. The force used in self-defence must be proportional to the threat of harm the individual faces. This means that individuals can only use as much force as is necessary to defend themselves and cannot use excessive force or engage in pre-emptive strikes.

In determining whether the use of self-defence was justified, courts will consider several factors, including the nature and severity of the threat faced by the individual, the individual's ability to safely retreat or de-escalate the situation, and the individual's level of expertise or training in self-defence techniques. 

A critical aspect of the law of self-defence is the: castle doctrine," which allows individuals to use deadly force to defend their home or dwelling place. this doctrine is based on the idea that a person's home is their "castle" and that they have a right to defend it against intruders or attackers. However, this doctrine is limited because it only applies to the individual's home or dwelling place and does not extend to other locations.

Another critical aspect of the law of self-defence is the "Stand your ground" doctrine, which allows individuals to use deadly force to defend themselves anywhere they have the right to be. This idea is based on the idea that individuals should NOT be required to de-escalate a situation if forced with a threat of harm. However, this doctrine has been controversial in some legal circles and has faced criticism for potentially escalating violent confrontations. Rule of thumb: no matter the place or circumstances  of a self-defence incident, there will be an investigation and eventual legal process. 

 In summary, the law of self-defence is a legal principle that allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect others from harm. It is based on a common law system. It considers several factors, including the nature and severity of the threat faced by the individual, the individual's ability to safely retreat(as required by law or not) or de-escalate the situation, and the individual's level of expertise or training in self-defence techniques. While the castle doctrine and stand-your-ground doctrine provide additional protections for individuals in certain circumstances, they are also subject to limitations and controversy in certain legal circles.     

On becoming the Gray Man (Personal Security Training)

                                                                 

The concept of being a "gray man" refers to the idea of blending into your environment and not drawing attention to yourself to avoid harm. This can be especially important in situations where you may be at risk of violence or persecution, such as during a natural disaster, political unrest, or terrorist attack.

There are a few key strategies that can help you become a gray man and reduce your risk of being targeted:

1. Dress and act appropriately for your surroundings: Wear clothing and accessories that are common and unremarkable in your environment. Avoid standing out with flashy or unusual clothing, hairstyles, or jewelry. Avoid drawing attention to yourself with unusual or confrontational behaviour.

2. Keep a low profile: Don't draw attention to yourself by talking loudly or making a scene. Avoid making eye contact or engaging with strangers. Stay out of the way and avoid standing out in a crowd.

3. Know your surroundings: Familiarize yourself with the area you are in and the potential risks that may be present. This will help you be aware of potential dangers and allow you to make informed decisions about your safety.

4. Keep a low-profile vehicle: If you have a car, choose one that is common and unremarkable in your area. Avoid driving a flashy or expensive vehicle, which may make you a target for theft or other crimes.

5. Stay informed: Stay up-to-date on local news and events, and be aware of any potential threats in your area. This will help you be prepared for potential dangers and make informed decisions about your safety.

6. Have a plan: In case of an emergency, it's crucial to have a plan. Know the best routes to safety and have a plan for how to get there. Make sure you have emergency supplies, such as water, food, and first aid kits, in case you need to evacuate.

By following these strategies, you can increase your chances of blending into your environment and avoiding harm. It's important to remember that the goal of being a gray man is not to completely disappear but to reduce your risk of being targeted by blending in with your surroundings and avoiding attracting unwanted attention.

Gun Range Safety (Personal Security Training)

                                                                 

Gun range safety is an important topic that should be on the mind of anyone planning to visit a shooting range. A gun range allows individuals to practice shooting firearms in a controlled environment. Still, it's important to remember that accidents can happen even in this calm setting if proper safety measures are not followed.

The first and most important rule of gun range safety is always to treat every firearm as if it is loaded. This means you should never point a gun at anything you do not intend to shoot and keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. In addition, you should always be aware of your surroundings and ensure that you are not pointing your gun at anyone else on the range.

Another important gun range safety rule is wearing the proper protective gear. This includes earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing and safety glasses to protect your eyes. It's also a good idea to wear a hat to protect your head from any hot brass that may be ejected from the gun.

Following the proper procedures is essential when loading and unloading your firearm on the gun range. This means ensuring that the gun is pointed safely and using the correct ammunition for your firearm. It's also essential to keep the gun's action open and unloaded until you are ready to shoot.

In addition to following these basic safety rules, it's also important to listen to the range safety officer and follow their instructions. The range safety officer ensures that everyone on the range follows the rules and stays safe. Ask the range safety officer for guidance if you have any questions or concerns. 

(for more articles like this one, go to pstcnc.com)

Tradewinds Time Capsule: The King of the Yeopims sells to Durant

                                                                 

 

On August 4, 1661, a man named Cisketando, the king of the Yeopims, sold a tract of land on the Perquimans River to Durant. The Yeopims were a Native American tribe that lived in what is now known as North Carolina.

One year later, on March 1, 1661/62, Durant obtained a second deed for a piece of land from Kilcocanen, the king of the Yeopims. This land was located on a point that projected into Albemarle (now known as Roanoke) Sound and was situated between Perquimans River and Little River (then known as Katotine River).

It is still being determined precisely why Cisketando and Kilcocanen decided to sell these tracts of land to Durant. It is possible that they saw it as an opportunity to gain some financial benefit from the sale. It is also possible that they were interested in establishing a trade relationship with Durant and saw the sale of land as a way to develop that relationship.

It is important to note that these land transactions took place when European colonization of the Americas was just beginning. Many Native American tribes were hesitant to sell their land to European settlers, as they were often unfamiliar with land ownership and did not understand the long-term consequences of such a sale.

Despite this, some Native American tribes did choose to sell land to European settlers, and it is possible that the Yeopims saw the sale of these tracts as a way to establish a more peaceful relationship with the Europeans who were beginning to settle in their region.

Cisketando and Kilcocanen were under pressure from other European settlers to sell their land, as many Europeans were eager to acquire as much land as possible in the New World.

Regardless of the reasons behind the sale, these land transactions significantly impacted the Yeopims and the region in which they lived. The sale of these tracts likely contributed to the eventual displacement of the Yeopims from their traditional lands and the loss of their sovereignty.

As European settlers began establishing settlements in the region, the Yeopims were likely forced to adapt to a new way of life. They may have been forced to assimilate into European culture. The loss of their land and the subsequent changes to their way of life likely had a significant impact on the Yeopims and their descendants.

In conclusion, the sale of the tracts of land on the Perquimans River and Albemarle Sound to Durant by Cisketando and Kilcocanen played a significant role in the history of the Yeopims and the region in which they lived. While the exact motivations behind the sale are unclear, the consequences of these transactions certainly had a lasting impact on the Yeopims and their way of life.

Supreme Court decision Beard v. United States,1895 (Personal Security Training)

                                                             

The Supreme Court case of Beard v. United States decided in 1895, dealt with the issue of whether a person accused of a federal crime could use the "castle doctrine" as a defence. The castle doctrine is a legal principle that holds that a person has the right to use reasonable force, including deadly force, to protect their home and family from an intruder.

In Beard v. United States, the defendant, William Beard, was accused of violating federal law by selling liquor to Native Americans on an Indian reservation. Beard argued that he was justified because he acted in self-defence under the castle doctrine. He claimed that the Native Americans had threatened him and his family and that he had no choice but to defend himself and his property.

The Supreme Court rejected Beard's argument, holding that the castle doctrine was not a valid defence in a federal criminal case. The Court stated that the castle doctrine was a common law principle that applied only to state criminal cases and did not apply to federal cases.

The Court also noted that the castle doctrine was not a blanket justification for using deadly force. Instead, the Court stated that the use of deadly force was only justified in cases where it was necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm.

The Beard v. United States decision has had significant implications for applying the castle doctrine in federal criminal cases. In general, the decision means that individuals accused of federal crimes cannot use the castle doctrine as a defence unless they can show that they were acting in self-defence to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm.

Overall, the Supreme Court's decision in Beard v. United States serves as an important reminder that the castle doctrine is not a blanket justification for the use of deadly force and that individuals accused of federal crimes must be able to show that they were acting in self-defence to use the castle doctrine as a defence.

Tradewinds Time Capsule: Edward Vail Of Edenton

                                                           

Edward Vail was a prominent figure in Edenton, North Carolina, during the mid-18th century. His public life began in 1754 when he played a crucial role in raising troops for the French and Indian War and personally fought in the conflict in Virginia.

Vail was born in 1725 in New Jersey, and at a young age, he moved to North Carolina with his family. He quickly became active in the community, serving as a member of the Edenton Town Council and as a justice of the peace. Vail was also a successful businessman, owning a plantation and several merchant ships.

When the French and Indian War broke out in 1754, Vail was among the first to answer the call to arms. He helped to recruit and train a company of soldiers and served as their captain during the War. Vail saw action in several key battles, including the Battle of Great Meadows and Fort Necessity.

After the War ended in 1763, Vail returned to Edenton and resumed public service. He was elected to the North Carolina General Assembly in 1765 and served as a member for several years. Vail was also involved in the efforts to establish a public school in Edenton and played a vital role in the construction of the town's first academy.

Despite his many accomplishments, Vail is best remembered for his role in the early resistance to British rule in North Carolina. He was a member of the Edenton Tea Party, a group of patriots who protested against the Tea Act and other oppressive measures imposed by the British government. Vail's strong commitment to liberty and independence would later earn him a place in the history of the American Revolution.

Edward Vail was a prominent figure in Edenton, North Carolina, during the mid-18th century. He played a vital role in the French and Indian War, later served in the North Carolina General Assembly and was involved in the early resistance to British rule. His dedication to liberty and independence made him an important figure in the history of the American Revolution.

 

Forgotten Legends Series: William E. Fairbain (Personal Security Training)

                                                           

 

William E. Fairbairn was a British soldier, police officer, and martial arts instructor, significantly contributing to police and military training. Born in 1899 in Britain, Fairbairn served in the British Army during World War I before joining the Shanghai Municipal Police in China in the 1920s.

While in Shanghai, Fairbairn developed a practical and efficient system of hand-to-hand combat and close-quarters combat, known as the "Defendu" system. This system was based on his observations and experiences in the streets of Shanghai, where he encountered various types of street fighting and criminal activity.

Fairbairn's Defendu system was designed to be simple and easy to learn, with an emphasis on practicality and effectiveness in real-world situations. It included techniques for unarmed combat, the use of various weapons, and tactics for close-quarters combat.

Fairbairn's Defendu system was widely adopted by police and military organizations around the world, including the British Army, the United States military, and various law enforcement agencies. In addition to his work as a martial arts instructor, Fairbairn also served as a consultant to multiple government agencies and worked as a personal security instructor for VIPs.

Fairbairn's contributions to police and military training went beyond just the development of the Defendu system. He also wrote several influential books on self-defence and close-quarters combat, including "Get Tough!," "Shanghai Police Training Manual," and "All In Fighting." These books were widely read and used as training manuals for law enforcement and military personnel.

Fairbairn's legacy as a martial arts instructor and close-quarters combat expert continues today, as his techniques and teachings are still used and studied by police and military personnel worldwide. In addition to his contributions to police and military training, Fairbairn is remembered as a pioneer of modern martial arts and a key figure in contemporary self-defence techniques.

Safety tips from Personal Security Training

                                                                 

 

Safety is a top priority for many people when they are out in public. Crime can happen anywhere and anytime, so protecting yourself and your belongings is essential. Here are some tips for avoiding crime while in public:

1. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to what is happening around you and be mindful of potential dangers. If you are walking, keep your phone in your pocket or bag and avoid wearing headphones so you can hear any possible threats.

2. Trust your instincts: If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable in a particular situation or location, listen to your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.

3. Keep a low profile: Avoid public displaying valuable items, such as expensive jewelry or electronics. This can attract unwanted attention and make you a target for crime.

4. Stay in well-lit, populated areas: Criminals often target individuals alone or in poorly lit areas. By staying in well-lit, populated areas, you are less likely to be targeted.

5. Don't carry large amounts of cash: Instead of large amounts, consider using a debit or credit card. This can help reduce the risk of being a victim of a robbery.

6. Keep your personal belongings close to you: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables close to you and always secure. Don't leave them unattended in public places.

7. Don't leave your car running: If you are running errands and need to leave your vehicle, be sure to turn it off and lock the doors. Leaving your car running and unattended is an easy way for thieves to steal your vehicle.

8. Stay sober: Avoid drinking too much alcohol when you are out in public. Alcohol can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to crime.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of a crime while in public. Remember to stay alert, trust your instincts, and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.

Parking lots: a Perpetrator's happy hunt ground (Personal Security Training)

                                                             

According to statistics, victims are attacked in parking lots 40% of the time, and in approximately 90% of these cases, the perpetrator is a drug addict. This disturbing trend can have severe consequences for victims, who may suffer physical harm or psychological trauma due to such attacks.

There are several reasons why victims may be attacked in parking lots, and one of the most common is the opportunity for a crime that these areas provide. Parking lots are often isolated and may not have a lot of foot traffic, making them an attractive location for perpetrators who want to commit a crime without being seen or caught. In addition, many parking lots do not have sufficient lighting or security measures, making it easier for perpetrators to attack their victims without being detected.

Another reason why victims may be attacked in parking lots is because they may be distracted or vulnerable. For example, a victim preoccupied with finding their car or loading groceries into their trunk may not be paying attention to their surroundings, making them an easy target for an attacker. Similarly, a victim who is alone or perceived as weak or vulnerable may also be more likely to be attacked in a parking lot.

As for the high percentage of drug addicts who attack victims in parking lots, this may be partly since drug addiction often leads to criminal behaviour. Many drug addicts turn to crime to support their habit, and parking lot attacks may be easy for them to get money or valuables from their victims. In addition, drug addiction can also impair judgment and decision-making abilities, which may increase the likelihood of an addict committing a violent crime.

There are several steps that victims can take to protect themselves from being attacked in a parking lot. These include being aware of their surroundings, staying in well-lit areas, and avoiding isolated or poorly-lit areas. It is also a good idea to keep a phone or other personal safety device handy in an emergency and to trust one's instincts if something feels off or a situation seems dangerous.

In conclusion, victims are attacked in parking lots 40% of the time, and in approximately 90% of these cases, the perpetrator is a drug addict. This trend is concerning and can have severe consequences for victims. To protect themselves, victims need to be aware of their surroundings, stay in well-lit areas, and take other precautions to ensure their safety.

Point Shooting -situational use only (Personal Security Training)

                                                          

Point shooting involves aiming a handgun using the natural alignment of the shooter's arm and hand rather than the sights on the gun. This technique is often used in close-quarters situations where the shooter needs to react quickly and accurately, such as in self-defence or law enforcement.

Point shooting originated in the early 20th century when it was developed by military and law enforcement trainers to teach soldiers and officers to shoot accurately in close combat situations. The technique was popularized in the 1980s and 1990s by trainers like Jeff Cooper and Massad Ayoob, who emphasized its usefulness in self-defence situations.

To point shoot effectively, the shooter must be able to align their arm and hand with the target quickly and instinctively. This requires proper grip, stance, and body positioning. The shooter should hold the gun firmly, with the thumb and forefinger wrapped around the front and the other fingers around the back. The gun should be held at chest level, with the elbow bent at a 90-degree angle and the arm extended straight out. The shooter should aim by aligning their arm and hand with the target rather than using the sights on the gun.

There are several advantages to point shooting. For one, it allows the shooter to react quickly in a close-quarters situation, as they do not need to take the time to align the sights on the gun. This can be especially useful in self-defence situations where every second counts. Additionally, point shooting can be more accurate at close range, as the shooter can align their arm and hand with the target more instinctively than they would be able to use the sights.

However, point shooting does have some limitations. It is generally not as accurate at longer ranges, as the shooter cannot use the sights to align their shot as precisely. Additionally, point shooting requires some skill and practice to be effective and may not be suitable for all shooters.

In conclusion, point shooting is a helpful technique for shooting a handgun accurately in close-quarters situations. It allows the shooter to react quickly and accurately at close range. However, it is less accurate at longer ranges and requires skill and practice to be effective.

Sight alignment & Sight Picture (Personal Security Training)

                                                             

 

Sight alignment and sight picture are two crucial concepts emphasized in handgun training. These techniques refer to how the shooter aligns their sights with the target and how they use their sights to aim and shoot accurately.

One of the main reasons that sight alignment and sight picture are emphasized in handgun training is because they are crucial for accurate shooting. The sights on a handgun are designed to help the shooter aim more precisely, and by using proper sight alignment and sight pictures, the shooter can significantly improve their accuracy.

Sight alignment refers to how the front and rear sights of the handgun are aligned with each other and with the target. Proper sight alignment involves aligning the top of the front sight with the top of the rear sights and centring the front sight in the rear sights. This ensures that the handgun barrel is aligned correctly with the target, which helps the shooter aim more accurately.

On the other hand, a sight picture refers to how the shooter uses the sights to aim at the target. A proper sight picture involves aligning the sights with the target and focusing on the front sight while maintaining a steady, relaxed grip on the handgun. By focusing on the front sight and maintaining a steady grip, the shooter can better control the movement of the handgun and increase their accuracy.

In addition to helping with accuracy, sight alignment and sight picture are also crucial for safety. Proper sight alignment and sight picture can help the shooter avoid accidentally shooting in the wrong direction, which is especially important in situations with other people nearby.

Overall, sight alignment and sight picture are essential techniques for handgun training because they help shooters aim more accurately and safely. By learning and practicing these techniques, shooters can improve their shooting skills and increase their confidence when handling a handgun.