OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – A new law, set to take effect later this year, could curb a growing problem in Oklahoma City. It stiffens penalties for people who shoot into homes or businesses. It was initially vetoed by Governor Kevin Stitt, but lawmakers overrode the measure shortly before deadline.“Anytime somebody’s firing a round anywhere in a crowded area it’s a problem,” said MSgt. Gary Knight, Oklahoma City Police Department. “But into dwellings, often times, we see people getting hit and injured.”Two weeks ago a man was killed in Oklahoma City after a stray bullet hit his home.“Somebody was sitting inside a residence. Somebody fired a gun outside. Bullet when right through the walls, struck him, struck him in the head, ended up killing him so it is a problem,” said Knight.
Police investigating officer-involved shooting in SW Oklahoma City
In 2022, a nine-year-old boy was playing video games inside his home when he was hit by gunfire. Four people have since been arrested and tried in the case.“Primarily it’s through drive by shootings and gang activity, things like that,” said Knight.
It’s an issue lawmakers addressed during the legislative session. Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, pushed to add shooting into a dwelling to the state’s 85% list, which means anyone found guilty of shooting into a home or business would have to serve at least 85 percent of their sentence.
Governor Kevin Stitt explained his reasoning behind vetoing the law. He said, “mandating 85% of time for cases that may involve no victims senselessly increases the burden on our criminal justice system.”Lawmakers and metro law enforcement hope the new law will deter more people from aimlessly pulling the trigger…