Burglars with any sense at all prefer to strike targets where they know that no one is home. It slashes the risk factor, because after all, tens of millions of law-abiding Americans legally own firearms and are prepared for unexpected visitors.
A North Memphis homeowner drove this point home emphatically to a 33-year-old suspect who was caught in the act of climbing through a window. Simeon Pratcher reportedly told arresting officers that he believed the dwelling was unoccupied.
He was wrong, almost dead wrong.
Responding officers found the suspect being held on the floor at gunpoint
It was early Tuesday morning, just after 1 a.m., when the unidentified homeowner encountered the suspect attempting to get inside. Shots were reportedly fired, though it is unclear if they were intended as a warning since Pratcher was not struck.
The resident took control and ordered the suspect to lie face down on the bedroom floor. That’s where responding Memphis Police Department officers found Pratcher when they arrived.
Authorities also entered to discover the homeowner standing over the suspect with a firearm pointed at him. Officers ordered him to put the weapon down; he complied, and the potentially lethal confrontation was over.
Armed homeowner emerged unhurt after surprise encounter
All things considered, Pratcher was fortunate to escape his error in judgment in one piece. He faces charges of aggravated burglary and possession of burglary tools, but that predicament pales in comparison to losing his life.
Kudos to the homeowner for exercising their Second Amendment rights and being ready even at such a late hour. Having a firearm is a plus, but it quickly becomes meaningless if the owner is not prepared and courageous enough to confront the perpetrator.
For one North Memphis resident, an armed response to a clear and present danger was the perfect reaction.
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