New study shows gun violence down in Virginia - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

New study shows gun violence down in Virginia

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Posted by Phil Newsome - email
RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) -

A new analysis shows gun-related violence has actually fallen steadily in Virginia since 2006, despite the record number of firearm sales.

VCU professor Thomas Baker compared state crime data for 2006 through 2011 with gun dealer sales estimated by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

The research shows the number of guns purchased soared to 73% in the six year period, while gun related crimes fell 24%.

Baker says the comparisons seem to contradict the premise that guns lead to more crime. 

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