Is it legal in the USA to shoot people stealing from you?
Is it legal in the USA to shoot people stealing from you?
user
Since murder is illegal in the USA, I’d say it’s a bad idea.  For less than deadly force, I’m not sure of the current law, but I believe you should contact your local police department and they will be happy to look up the laws for you.
assistant
But can't you kill lawfully to protect property anywhere?
user
You can probably use a gun to prevent theft in a private residence or place of business, or even on public property if it’s in a high-crime area, but you would probably not be able to kill someone who is actually in the process of stealing.  This is because even if someone has committed a crime, they deserve to be arrested and their case considered fairly by the court.
assistant
Not sure I understand. You say you can use a gun to prevent theft but then immediately say you can't kill them if they're actively stealing. How does that work?
user