MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Some say the solution to crime in Memphis is more guns.
In fact, the president of one neighborhood in Raleigh thinks everyone who lives there should legally carry a gun.
“I think it’s a first to have an entire neighborhood to come together and consider everyone going through gun safety classes and possibly becoming legal permit holders,” said State Representative Antonio Parkinson.
Parkinson said the president over the Twin Lakes Neighborhood Association came to him with the idea because people got tired of criminals coming into their neighborhood and breaking into their homes.
“I thought it was a wonderful idea. I believe that everyone should have the ability to protect themselves, but I think it’s important also that gun safety is taught, and people are educated in regards to gun safety,” said Parkinson.
Next Thursday, Twin Lakes residents will get to voice their opinions at a neighborhood meeting where a range manager will discuss gun safety.
Although organizers hope this will encourage everyone in the neighborhood to get gun permits, others are worried.
“Putting guns back in houses and then you at work and then your child go in there and grab a gun or sneak a gun and take it back to school then it’s going to fall back on you,” said Travis Smith.
Twin Lakes Neighborhood Association President Charles Henderson was not available for comment earlier but told WREG the goal is to make the neighborhood the safest one in Memphis.
Some believe this will put more criminals on the streets.
“No I don’t even believe in guns,” said Alvenia Willis.
Parkinson said everyone in the neighborhood would receive flyers about this Saturday.
There will also be a meeting next Thursday at 6:00 p.m at Cunningham Community Center.
