Hawaii: Farm thefts sharply decline : "Farm thefts -- once a chronic problem here -- have decreased dramatically since a man reportedly stealing from a farmer was shot and killed nearly six months ago, farmers and police said. No theft reports have been made at Kahuku farms since Marcelino Pacheco Jr. was shot near Khamxath Baccam's farm on Sept. 7. Baccam, 48, was charged with second-degree murder. His trial is set for the week of July 25. Police have said Baccam told investigators he shot Pacheco, 38, because he believed that Pacheco had been stealing equipment and produce from his farm. Baccam's attorney said his client will plead self-defense. Bouabanh Piasourapany, 49, said recently that other farmers tell her they haven't had any problems since September. ... Police said thieves are still ripping off tourists' cars but the September shooting might have been a wake-up call for people stealing from farmers."


Sudden change of tune: "Judges in Illinois would be able to carry concealed weapons under a bill inspired by the murders of the mother and husband of U.S. District Judge Joan Lefkow. Sen. Larry Bomke (R-Springfield) said he decided to draft the bill after getting a call from Sangamon County Circuit Judge Patrick Kelley, a former prosecutor, who said judges are concerned about retribution from people who appear before them."


Violence Policy Center: The star of gun control: "For those who thought the assault weapons ban was history, listen up. The gun banners had a taste of victory for ten years. They had stolen power from the people, and it was a rush. When the ban faded into the sunset last fall, there was a general wailing and gnashing of teeth among those who thought the end was near for civilian firearms' ownership. Like addicts suddenly cut off from their favorite drug, withdrawal set in, along with an overwhelming desire for revenge on those they mistakenly hold to be accountable for their suffering. They are waiting for any opportunity, and when there is a mass murder using a firearm, the misinformation machine -- dormant but not dismantled -- will swing back into high gear.Two recent shootings were the ignition key for the Violence Policy Center public relations machine."