Criminal idiocy and deadly repercussions.

Durham, North Carolina, police spokesman Sergeant Jack Cates said about an August 9 shooting: "This man was defending his life. I think probably if he had not had a gun, he would have been [killed], as well as the female in the house, and possibly the baby," reported the News and Observer.

Sgt. Cates was referring to an attempted robbery committed by Rashaad Cox and Rondelle Mincey at 1:40 a.m. The two kicked in the front door of a Durham residence and entered. At least one of the two intruders was armed. The homeowner, who has not been officially identified, grabbed a pistol and shot both intruders, killing Mincey and sending Cox fleeing, the tires on his getaway cars squealing as he left the area.

Cox was arrested after seeking medical treatment for a wounded arm. He was charged with armed robbery with a dangerous weapon, first-degree burglary, and cocaine possession.

Not surprisingly, Cox, though only 19, has a long history of criminal activity. Also, as could be expected, he has received very lenient treatment for his crimes. According to the Goldsboro News-Argus, less than two months before this break-in, "he was in court on 10 charges. They include breaking and entering, damaging real property, possession of drugs and stolen goods.... The list goes on." All of those charges against Cox "were consolidated," and he was "put on probation," though when he committed those crimes, he was already "on probation for possession of a stolen car."

The News-Argus concluded by asking and answering a pertinent question: "Might these latest charges be consolidated and reduced to misdemeanors so this young man can be released to demonstrate his ability to be a good citizen?"

"Don't rule it out."