"Rick, Sorry that it has taken me so long to thank you. Although the class alone can't protect me or
my family from danger, it has improved our ability to defend ourselves. The techniques and information that
we covered in the class have taught me to be more aware and prepared period. I am more confident and
comfortable when I leave home, knowing that I'm better prepared to address potentially dangerous
confrontational situations. Once again thank you and I look forward to Session II (Personal Protection
Outside The Home Course)." - Mr. A. L. Odell III, Auto Industry Employee, Southfield, Oakland County,
Michigan 48075
"Rick, I really enjoyed your CCW Class and found it to be very informative. Having an attorney come in to
speak about various laws and priviledges with the permit was very helpful. I would have enjoyed more shooting
time at the range. Good class, very efficient, and informative. I will be sure to pass along your name to
anyone considering their CCW." - Mr. B. C. Jaussi, Novi, Oakland County, Michigan 48575
"Hello Rick. Sorry it took so long to get back to you. Just to let you know, I've got my CCW license and I
bought a 9mm S+W (M&P) semi-automatic. I had intentions of getting a revolver, but after seeing and shooting
your semi-automatic, I changed my mind. As for your class, I found that you were not only knowledgeable but you
were also enthusiastic. What really impressed me was the fact that when we went to the gun range, I was a little
short on money, you were kind enough to let me use your gun. This is what convinced me to buy a 9mm. I appreciate
your help and I would (and do) recommend your class to anyone wanting to get their permit. Thank you." -
Mr. C. W. Miller, Retiree, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48219
"Rick Ector's firearm safety class provides a comprehensive introduction to the possession and use of
firearms for personal defense. The knowledge gained in this class is invaluable to both novices and
experienced firearm owners. Mr. Ector's sincere presentation of the materials is insightful and serves as a
reminder of the care and safety which must be exercised when using firearms. The course is taught in a
comfortable environment which is not intimidating to the first-time gun user. Any gun owner can benefit from
taking this course." - Mr. J. Boyer, Attorney At Law, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48207
"Rick's Firearm Academy of Detroit CCW class provided an excellent introduction to understanding personal
firearm basics, personal safety best practices, ccw application procedural instructions, and legal
implications with firearm ownership. Rick Ector and his assistant kept the class interesting with sharing
personal experiences, demonstrating basic firearm techniques, discussing legal matters with a lawyer, and
concluding with an exciting practice session at the firing range. Whether or not you pursue a CCW
application, this class is certainly a memorable one." - Mr. N. Franklin, Automotive Engineer,
Rochester Hills, Oakland County, Michigan 48309
Michigan CPL: Defense Of Third Persons - By Rick Ector
Michigan CPL: Defense Of Third Persons
Under specific circumstances, Michigan law authorizes Concealed Pistol License (CPL) holders to defend other
"third persons" who are in imminent jeopardy of severe bodily harm and/or sexual assault. This article will explore the potential ramifications of
"getting involved" in a violent confrontation.
A person who is being assaulted by a criminal knows with absolute certainty that he is in imminent danger. In this situation, there is no confusion from the
victim's perspective as to what is happening. Onlookers to an assault may not be sure of what is happening, which of the persons involved is the victim, and what
actions caused the incident to happen. Uncertainty, a desire not to get involved, and a fear of being harmed are factors that lead to inaction by witnesses.
For example, on May 4, 2007 a 90 year-old Detroit man was severely beaten during a carjacking. The surveillance video (See below) of the incident was horrific;
the senior citizen was struck at least 23 times in the face by his attacker.
This incident got national exposure - in part - due to the fact that there were five people standing around watching this crime unfold. In the aftermath, TV
talk shows and news radio broadcasts were flooded with calls from citizens who wished that at least one of the bystanders would have intervened.
Moreover, in 2000 another highly publicized and witnessed attack occurred. A University of Michigan student was brutally beaten to death in a Kalamazoo
Amtrak™ bus station bathroom by a man suffering from a mental illness. In this case, five people were reportedly situated within "shouting distance"
from the crime scene but failed to come to the victim's aid. In fact, one witness found the victim unconscious and another bystander saw the victim's body
lying in a pool of blood; neither person rendered aid or contacted authorities.
In both of the above cases, most people would agree that both victims were in jeopardy of severe bodily harm. Thus, any person - with a CPL or not - could have
used force, perhaps even deadly force, to come to the aid of the victims. At the very least someone could have made a 9-1-1 phone call.
Other cases, however, may not be so easy to reconcile under the law. For example, if a CPL licensee witnesses a woman being violently beaten by her "significant
other" in a domestic situation, should he intervene?
Domestic violence (DV) is a despicable crime. The violators of this crime should be severely punished for their transgressions. However, the ugly reality of
today's world is that many DV victims do not want any penalties levied against their attackers, er, loved ones. Perhaps, the abuser is the sole wage earner. What
ever the case, they will bend over backwards to sabotage the prosecution: not press charges, fail to testify, etc.
Now, after learning and knowing all of this, why would or should another person intervene in a third-party DV squabble? An intervention could ultimately lead to
the use of deadly force. If an "attacker" in a domestic violence scenario is killed, will the victim be thankful for being rescued or vengeful for having her
significant other slain? On whose behalf, will the victim make statements? The defense or the prosecution?
It is for this very reason that Good Samaritan Laws regarding violent attacks should not be enacted. The law should not compel a person to put himself in harm's
way to save another. Doing so in some cases could also imperil his freedom. Every person has to decide for himself how he will act when encountering violence being
committed against another. At the very least, a witness can make a 9-1-1 call but even that act should not be legislated.
