LETTER: We need better gun security

The citizens of Aiken mourn the lost of yet another police officer whose life was cut short. Officer Sandy Rogers dreadful fate happened weeks after the death of Officer Richardson, at the hands of a crazed young man with an unregistered gun. The outpouring the emotion for the loss of two upstanding public servants is hardly adequate. It'll take more than hand-wringing and head bobbing to change the guns violence in our country. Officer Rodgers alleged killer was arrested in 2009 and again in 2011, each time carrying a concealed weapon. Both times he was given the equivalent of a finger waging and released. Law abiding citizens deserve an explanation, as to why so many criminals can obtaining guns. To demonstrate a point, I drove to the motor vehicle office on Richland Avenue and inquired about upgrading my driving license. I was informed, seven grades were obtainable, and I would have to take a written and driving test to qualify, fill out several forms, have my picture taken, pay a fee and pass a background check. I thanked the lady. The law mandates a special license to transport our children in school busses, to drive big rigs, oil tanker, hazardous waste trucks, should we not demand the same from people who purchasers guns. There are roughly 12,000 homicides a year in this country and the lunacy gallops on. What kind of untamed society are we becoming? Our schools, churches, shopping malls, military bases and universities are not the secure places the once were. Responsible gun owners should demand better gun security. I worry about my grandchildren and all people who use our parks. We can do better.

Liam McGinley

Aiken.