I think I’m going to post some things occasionally to spark some conversation and encourage education. Please keep things civil and LEGAL lol. Really think, use this as an exercise. You can answer broadly or with your specific state laws in mind.
You’re walking back to your car at night when someone aggressively approaches, shouting for money. They haven’t drawn a weapon. What’s your next move?
Sorry I don’t give money to strangers.
First, get between them and my wife.
Second “GET THE F**K AWAY FROM ME!!! NOW!!!”
Based on that person response
Third - if they retreat, keep my eyes on him while R gets into the car then get in myself. Drive away.
Third - if they keep coming aggressively with no visible weapon, ATTACK With Ill Intent. Probably kick to the crotch first but there are many other hand to hand options.
Third - if they keep coming aggressively with a visible weapon, Draw (if there time and space) "DROP THE WEAPON) one time then engage.
Third - if they keep coming aggressively with a visible weapon, and they are too close, Draw and engage.
Condition Red
My immediate reaction would be to yell back, “that’s close enough!” while moving away from X.
Depending on perceived threat (do they look like a linebacker or a midget), my drawing hand might already be covering my concealed pistol.
Scan if they have friends flanking me.
What else could I be saying?
“No, I’m not giving you any money.”
“Not tonight, satan!”
“Don’t come any closer or I’ll call the cops.”
I’m too old for that shyte.
My immediate reaction is to de- escalate.
Distance is the key to the whole scenario.
How much time do I have to get in my vehicle?
Does the aggressor have a weapon?
Where are you?
Why are you there at night?
I carry a fake wallet with fake money, (movie prop money) hundred-dollar bills. Throw that wallet at him and get in your car and go! Call 911.
So far I can’t disagree with anyone, sort of!
It’s all in the details. My first thought is to get the shopping cart or vehicle between me and the potential threat, preferably with me on the drivers side of the vehicle. I always approach my vehicle with fob in hand. Try to verbally disengage using increasing urgency as appropriate. Next option is dependent on behavior of “the threat”. If things look deadly draw and fire. If practical leave in vehicle. 911 call is next.
Punch, kick and retreat.
Or
Instead of my wallet I hand him a stream of pepper gel.
Next move depends on the situation.
I’m guessing calling 911 would be a good idea to keep my ass on the legally right side.
Now, that you’ve mentioned it…
Sadly, even the “safest” place in town isn’t immune from panhandling.
Possibly, perps even look at those places as soft targets.
So, I could be there for any number of reasons and it’s nobody’s business.
Neat trick. I’m gonna remember that.
Yell back at him to give me money FIRST!
Yep. I always have an ASP defender in my pocket for a less lethal option.
As far as me getting approached at night, whoever that guy is will need a 5-gallon bucket of balls. I dress in black most all the time. I look like I’m out planning some nefarious crime myself and I have a stare that will stop most people in their tracks. I always have my head on a swivel, and I don’t break eye contact. That intimidates people.
I second this motion whole heartedly. I have a bundle of keys for my daily affairs, then a second set only for my truck. It is the ignition key, key fob and a rocker from the truck’s engine. That is in my hand when I approach my vehicle.
I impressed this tactic upon my daughter, and it saved her one night when she was in college in Orlando. I bought her a Hello Kitty key ring that has only her key and the fob. She carries it with her fingers through the eye holes and the two big ears sticking up.
There had been a rash of muggings on campus and the M.O. was the same every time. Female student walking alone late at night. Single bad guy. 6 feet, medium build. Always wore a stocking mask over his face, black hoodie and gloves.
My daughter came out of her late class and was walking through a nearly empty parking lot. Her purse was over her head and hanging off the opposite side. Her apartment keys were in her purse and the Hello Kitty was in her right hand and ready.
When he jumped her, he didn’t think she was as prepared as she was. Even though she did get knocked around, she was able to hit him in the side and in his belly about a dozen times before he decided it wasn’t worth his effort. The police found him at a hospital ER. He said some crazy girl tried to mug him. Go figure.
It was another issue of security cameras telling the truth.
First I would look at the person quizzically. Next wonder what this runt is thinking, running at me…Conclude he must be on crack… If I see no weapon. I swiftly open my car door and say töten… My dobe jumps out and subdues him till law enforcement arrives… I always have a guard dog with me…
If he presents a weapon . I show off my acting prowess. Acting all scared to draw him close . Then drop my wallet, when he is next to me. Watch his eyes follow it. Then take the advantage, overpower him with my size and training… Now if I can avoid any of this by leaving then calling law enforcement by all means that is my first option …
If he is showing no weapon at any time. I am able to keep my distance. I will not leave the area until the law shows up … There are people out there, I may need to warn to stay away… This is not do to having a hero complex… It is about caring for others… To be clear … I do not want to engage unless every other option is expended …
Not a whole lot of info but I would calmly deny him of the money and keep moving towards my vehicle to leave. The rest would be up to what the person does next.
Oregon has no duty to retreat. So for me it would be “Go away” while drawing my firearm, if the person persists, it’s all on him from that point.
Guessing mag dump at his feet while screaming “let’s see how good you dance!” is not the correct answer.
I’ve seen people carry an old broken phone with one of the sticky pouch wallets on the back containing fake cards/cash. It definitely can be a useful distraction.
There are no not correct answers. There are some answers that could get you in trouble if you’re ever in a lethal self defense situation.
