Letter to the editor: Good reasons for increased gun ownership

It is unfortunate that the writer of the letter “Sheriff’s divisive letter tarnishes office” (Dec. 20, TribLive) felt that my letter “Keeping Westmoreland County safe” (Dec. 10, TribLive) was divisive. It was based on facts. A Gallup poll released Dec. 8, based on a six-year study, indicated the following:

• Gun ownership is surging among Republican women, from 19% to 33%.

• 20% of American women now own guns.

• There has been a dramatic rise in women attending gun safety classes.

• Gun ownership by Democratic men is at 29%. Gun ownership by Republican men is at 60%.

The study showed these reasons for the increase:

• An unsecure border.

• Rising violent crime.

• Economic instability.

My letter also indicated that as chief law enforcement officer of Westmoreland County, I will direct my department to work with other authorities to apprehend wanted illegal aliens. Who in the public would not want to fully enforce the law?

James Albert

Greensburg The writer is Westmoreland County sheriff.