Guns bought in Georgia were recovered from more crime scenes nationwide in 2007 than those bought in other states. The review of federal data by The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence shows 2,600 guns were traced to Georgia gun stores.
That figure ranks Georgia first, ahead of Florida and Texas, as a source for guns recovered in other states. Most weapons seized in Georgia crimes were also purchased here.
Alice Johnson, with Georgians for Gun Safety, says the numbers reflect Georgia’s gun-friendly reputation: “It’s a function of weak gun laws, easy access to firearms, significant numbers of gun shows, and swap meets, and flea markets, where these guns are sold without a background check.”
Some gun-rights advocates have criticized the report as misleading and insist, if anything, Georgia gun laws are too restrictive. In July, a new law will allow gun owners with permits to carry weapons on mass transit, into restaurants and in public parks.
(updated)
