Defenders of “Stand Your Ground” laws often cite a woman’s right to shoot her attacker or rapist as a rationale for broader gun regulations. This is especially the case since the fatal shootings of Black teenagers Trayvon Martin and Jordan Davis in Florida. These shootings cast the “Stand Your Ground” laws under public scrutiny.
However, Marissa Alexander of Florida is facing a possible 60-year sentence for reportedly “standing her ground.” Even though, no one was hurt in the incident. Alexander says she fired a warning shot at her abusive husband. But, according to a new analysis of FBI homicide data, her race may be a reason why she has not been granted equal protection under the law.
