[El Gato]

The Governor's decision drew guarded praise from advocates of victims' rights, who contend that such devices should be available to the public but should not give people a false sense of security.

Yes, while still not perfect, a .45 ACP, .40 S&W or even 9 mm handgun is much better for defending oneself. A guy high on drugs will just shrug off the pepper spray. It'll only make him madder.

OTOH, some of the thugs from Mexico and other central American countries, and also Cajun Crooks, might be distracted when they look for their chips in order to take advantage of the free condiment.

[lowbridge]

Still, opponents of the law, including Mayor Giuliani and Police Commissioner Howard Safir, have expressed concerns that the sprays might fall into the hands of criminals or be misused by citizens who lack proper training. The Mayor had urged the Governor in recent weeks not to sign the legislation, arguing that releasing such powerful chemicals in congested areas like New York City could hurt bystanders, not just intended assailants.

So, it's been about ten years. Hey rudy, has your predictions come true?