Borris Smiles

"A state lawmaker who opposed a law giving Texans a stronger right to defend themselves with deadly force shot a man he said was trying to steal copper wiring from a construction site, police said Monday." (Police: Texas lawmaker shoots would-be thief.)

This story seems a bit hypocritical in the face of the fact that Rep. Borris Miles previously opposed a stronger self defense bill. But we must remember that he hails from the Republic of Texas, and he is a former policemen.

Charges of aggravated robbery are pending against the wounded suspect, Police Spokesman Victor Senties said. Apparently no charges accrued to Rep. Miles, who said the man threw a pocketknife at him upon Miles' confrontation.

What need have they of a stronger self-defense bill, if they can already shoot someone for stealing copper wire?

--Lisa