Crime Thieves Steal Guns After Breaking Into Another Home Listed on NY Newspaper’s ‘Gun Map’

Jan. 17, 2013 3:20pm Billy Hallowell

Credit: Getty Images 

Critics who have continuously alleged that the Journal News’ interactive map that includes gun owners’ personal information will lead to crime may begin uttering some “I told you sos” (albiet, a bit prematurely). Two pistols and related permits were stolen from a home in New City, N.Y. The owner of the firearms was listed on the newspaper’s controversial map — leading some to wonder if the criminal act and the publication are connected.

Newsday reports that thieves entered the home on Wednesday evening. Once inside, they “ransacked the house” and broke into two safes, stealing a third. The guns were apparently in this latter unit that was taken out of the home by the criminals.

Following the incident, associated family members refused to comment about what unfolded. And for those looking for definite ties to the Journal News’ gun map, police are saying that there is no direct evidence, thus far, that the burglary was related to the publication. In fact, at the moment, authorities believe that the home was not targeted — something police will continue to investigate.

“The burglary is still under investigation and there are no facts to support this correlation at this time,” said Clarkstown Sgt. Joanne Fratianni. “If the investigation develops further information, it will be released accordingly.”

The Clarkstown case may or may not have a connection to the map, however this is the second incident involving a gun owner on the map who has had his or her home terrorized by burglars. Previously, a White Plains, N.Y., home was targeted, with thieves ultimately failing to open a gun safe and retrieve weapons. That investigation is ongoing as well.

Authorities in the White Plains case have said that it is premature to definitively connect the gun map to the crime, but that questions surrounding its involvement are a part of the case.