What to say after a shooting

[ghettodub]

As I was digging through a folder on my desk, found my packet from my CCW class. Here's what it had in there:

Home Invasion

if you hear someone break into your home, arm yourself and make sure that you have your flashlight. Call 911. Report the fact that there is a home invasion in progress and that you are armed. Set the phone down, but leave it connected so that the 911 operator records the warning that you will be shouting to the assailant that "I AM ARMED" and that "YOU WILL BE SHOT IF YOU DO NOT LEAVE IMMEDIATELY."

The Aftermath of a Shooting

Call the police. Stay away from the assailant. He does not deserve your pity or concern; he was going to hurt of kill you. If he is alive he can still be a threat (a hunter never turns his back on a dangerous animal - same idea). Call the police as soon as it is safe to do so. Dial 911. Report the home invasion and the shooting and ask that they send help and hang up. The 911 operator's job is to ask questions and gather information and it is being recorded. You do not want to say anything to the authorities as your mind is racing. Follow the instructions of the police when they arrive. Be aware that they just walked in on a violent crime scene and have no idea what happened or who you are.

if you are outdoors, holster your gun and raise your hands at their approach. Indoors, place the gun in plain sight but out of your reach and raise your hands. Tensions will be very high. Don't do anything that could cause the police to view you as a threat.

DO NOT answer questions about the shooting until you have calmed down and with your lawyer present. You have the right to both - take advantage of this. Any you say after having calmed down that differs from what you said while upset will seem like lies or changing your story. Get it clear in your head before you talk about it. It is in your best interest to have an attorney present to protect your rights. The police are not your enemy, but at this time, they are not your friends either. There is a good chance you will be arrested after a shooting; expect this. You may have emotional reactions after the shooting, such as elation, revulsion, remorse and self doubt as to whether you were justified to shoot. This is natural. DO NOT SHARE THESE FEELINGS WITH THE AUTHORITIES. Be aware of this and seek appropriate help if this is the case.