Chief to talk on citizens’ rights to protect themselves

Maricopa Police Chief Steve Stahl wants to tell residents what it means to “stand your ground.”

Stahl will focus on citizens’ rights to protect themselves, their property and their family during this month’s Coffee with the Chief on Saturday.

“There’s a whole lot of discussion with some of the acts that have happened in the United States of America right now,” Stahl said.

In the past month, two major shootings have occurred in the country, reigniting a national discussion on gun rights.

One was the mass shooting at a movie theater in Aurora, Colo. and another occurred in Oak Creek, Wis. when a neo-Nazi opened fire on congregants in a Sikh temple.

“I really think they want to know what rights they have to protect themselves,” Stahl said.

It’s an important topic because of misconceptions fostered by television shows, faulty Internet information and other media, he said.

“There are all kinds of things that can steer people in the wrong direction,” Stahl said. “I really think this should be a discussion that provokes thought from the people who attend.”

Coffee with the Chief is the second Saturday of the month 8 a.m. at the Maricopa Public Library.

More innformation is available by calling 520-316-6868.