Self protection

[newtron]

I was a little disturbed by some remarks in a question below that suggested that if you are attacked by someone and protect yourself by fighting back, you can get into trouble. Is this true? So if I am attacked, I should just let them hurt me? That seems very silly to me. If there is a such a thing as a "god given right", it is surely the right to protect yourself.

[El D]

I second that of course Jules, and I have no doubt the vast majority of people also sympathise with TMs situation. I believe that contrary to your comments TM did indeed aim directly at the fleeing criminals which is why he was treated to harshly - there no intent to scare, no warning given, only harm intended. Cases like this are indeed difficult and everyone will have an opinion but I feel as a test case of reasonable self-defence this is not a good choice.