The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Guy chases burglar outside and shoots him away from the house.

MLeake · June 30, 2009, 08:36 PM

... which have a degree of sovereignty in setting their criminal codes.

Knowledge of Tennessee or Florida or Alaska law might, but does not necessarily, help with knowledge of Texas law.

Texas tends to give homeowners a lot more leeway in the defense and recovery of property. The posters from Texas all seem to believe nighttime burglary falls under Texas felonies, and would allow homeowners to pursue.

I don't know how this will pan out, but just bear in mind that your legal absolutes may not have bearing in other people's instances.

Tactically, was it smart to pursue instead of call the police? Probably not. Was it illegal in this case? We'll see...

June 30, 2009, 08:36 PM	#26
MLeake Senior Member Join Date: November 15, 2007 Location: Outside KC, MO Posts: 10,128	Posters need to remember that there are these things called states... ... which have a degree of sovereignty in setting their criminal codes. Knowledge of Tennessee or Florida or Alaska law might, but does not necessarily, help with knowledge of Texas law. Texas tends to give homeowners a lot more leeway in the defense and recovery of property. The posters from Texas all seem to believe nighttime burglary falls under Texas felonies, and would allow homeowners to pursue. I don't know how this will pan out, but just bear in mind that your legal absolutes may not have bearing in other people's instances. Tactically, was it smart to pursue instead of call the police? Probably not. Was it illegal in this case? We'll see...