This case highlights the issue of overcriminalization and the potential for severe penalties for individuals exercising their right to self-defense, particularly those without the resources to navigate complex licensing processes. It also shows the contempt New York’s government has toward people who rely on themselves for their safety rather than hoping the state will protect them.

Earlier this month, Foehner appeared in court:

Charles Foehner, the man charged after shooting and killing an alleged robber in Queens, was back in court Monday.

Detectives said Foehner, a 65-year-old retired doorman, fatally shot a man who was trying to rob him at 82nd Avenue and Queens Boulevard in Kew Gardens on May 31.

Foehner faces weapons charges after prosecutors said a search of his home revealed he had more than two dozen weapons – including pistols, shotguns and an AK-47 – but was only licensed for five.

When speaking with the authorities after the shooting, Foehner admitted he was carrying his pistol for protection:

Foehner stands accused of using an unlicensed gun during the deadly shooting — and of keeping an arsenal of illicit handguns, revolvers and rifles at this home in the quiet neighborhood, authorities have said.

In what prosecutors called a confession, Foehner told authorities he was packing the illegal pistol used to shoot Gonzalez, 32, to protect himself as New York City crime rates soar, Assistant District Attorney Joseph Randazzo said in court Friday.

“Last night I was carrying a firearm because of the way the city has been for the last three years,” Foehner allegedly said. “I read the crime stats and I see so much crime. I had the pistol. I obtained it in a bar one night.”

But Randazzo said police later found “approximately 26 firearms, including pistols, shotguns, rifles, an AK 47, two body armor vests and multiple rounds of ammunition” in his home.

Of the cache of weapons, only five rifles were licensed, Randazzo said.

If convicted, Foehner could face up to 25 years in prison, which could be a life sentence for the 65-year-old retired doorman.

As in the case of Jose Alba, New York’s government is trying to punish one of its residents for defending himself and exercising his God-given right to keep and bear arms.

Foehner’s case highlights the issue of overcriminalization within the legal system. While it is crucial to ensure public safety, it is equally important to consider the circumstances and intentions behind the possession of such weapons. Punishing individuals disproportionately for minor administrative violations – especially ones that are unconstitutional – can lead to a loss of faith in the justice system.

Unfortunately, New York’s progressive leadership believes folks like Foehner should be forced to make themselves vulnerable to people like Gonzalez. Instead of letting law-abiding folks like Foehner own guns, they would rather see them risk being shot and killed by criminals while waiting for the police to show up.

The reality is that Foehner should not be facing any charges, nor should the laws that New York is using to target him even exist. New York’s recent penchant for punishing those who defend themselves seems designed to send a message: Let us protect you, or you might end up dead or in prison.

Sounds pretty reassuring, doesn’t it?

Regrettably, this might just have the impact that the anti-gunner lobby wants. Fewer people in New York will carry firearms – except for the criminals. No wonder people are fleeing the state in droves.