We Have Met the Enemy

…and he is the Gannett newspaper chain (for which I once worked, decades ago), which offers this helpful example of “service journalism” for its readers in Westchester and Rockland counties, New York — the names and home addresses of pistol permit holders in the circulation area:

The map indicates the addresses of all pistol permit holders in Westchester and Rockland counties. Each dot represents an individual permit holder licensed to own a handgun — a pistol or revolver. The data does not include owners of long guns — rifles or shotguns — which can be purchased without a permit. Being included in this map does not mean the individual at a specific location owns a weapon, just that they are licensed to do so.

What possible use can such a map serve? You can start by asking this woman, who’s already getting quite a backlash from her readers. Discuss among yourselves, and have a Merry Christmas.

UPDATE: Where are the Journal News employees in your neighborhood? Find out here.