Thieves target gun owners in Hampton, VA

[FortKnox]

http://wavy.com/2016/05/22/police-thieves-target-gun-owners-in-hampton/

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) – Police in Hampton are warning gun owners to protect themselves against theft.

The Hampton Police Division has seen an uptick in weapons stolen from cars and homes, according to Police Chief Terry Sult.

Sult says suspects they’ve arrested have admitted to targeting properties with NRA stickers, military insignia and campaign signs that can tip criminals off to residents’ political values. The chief also says members of the military and law enforcement officers are at a higher risk.

“We have seen youth targeting homes that have flags in front of their houses, who have military stickers, or any indication that a home may have a weapon …and being somewhat successful at that.”

Hampton’s police chief spoke exclusively to 10 On Your Side earlier this week about anincrease in violent crime.

[Grand Torino]

I lived there for a time in 1985 while stationed at Langley AFB. It wasn't the nicest of places even back then.

[Sidecarist]

I'm a firm believer in NOT advertising for gun companies and the NRA on my truck etc. I also limit shirts etc to when I'm going to the range etc.

[BigK]

I understand minimizing risk. Hell, I carry a gun for that exact reason. However, I absolutely refuse to live in fear. I will not scour every aspect of my outward appearance of all signs that might possibly single me out as a gun owner.

I don't want guns in the hands of criminals any more than the next guy, but I have insurance to cover my losses in the event of a robbery. I hope I never have to use the insurance, just like I hope I never have to use my gun to defend myself/family. Until that happens...KEEP CALM AND CARRY

[jhc77]

It is Hampton of course. I was raised in Williamsburg and moved to TN in 2005. I don't think one time my parents said in the 29 years I lived there "Hey, you wanna drive to Hampton/Newport News for such and such?"

Stickers get stuck on stuff in the garage not on my vehicles.

[McGarrett]

This bumper sticker would deter gun thieves but you might have more problems with vandals. Anybody want to test one of these out?.

I don't think I could even stomach this one in the garage, but then again I don't even have a garage you can call home and ask my wife.

Edited June 1, 2016 by McGarrett