gunracking

Gunracking is a term that emerged in the United States to describe the practice of leaving firearms unsecured in vehicles, such as in the trunk or on the seat, where they can be easily stolen. This often happens when gun owners leave their vehicles unattended, particularly in public places or at their homes. The stolen firearms are then frequently used in criminal activities.

The term "gunracking" gained prominence in the late 2010s and early 2020s, fueled by increased media attention and advocacy efforts by law enforcement and community groups. These groups highlight the link between unsecured firearms in cars and the rise of gun violence. The problem is particularly acute in urban areas where the theft of firearms from vehicles has become a significant concern for police departments.

Efforts to combat gunracking include public awareness campaigns, legislative proposals aimed at making it more difficult to steal firearms from vehicles, and increased enforcement of existing laws. Some jurisdictions have implemented stricter penalties for individuals found to be unlawfully possessing firearms stolen from vehicles. Responsible gun ownership education also emphasizes the importance of secure storage for firearms, even when briefly unattended in a car. The goal is to reduce the number of firearms that fall into the wrong hands through theft.